‘What’s that? We have a whole month of our own? And it’s happening right now?’
Happy Pride to everyone out there (that includes you Mum and Dad), it’s finally that time of the year when we take over the city for a community based gala of extravagance, wonderment and liberation, a festival which recognises the participation of the queer community in all aspects of life as we know it – and in some which we don’t. It’s a big gay world out there and Pride is all about making sure everyone knows it’s there.
Linking the community via a series of organised events, gives us all an opportunity to explore just what is out there and usually we find that it’s us, but there is other stuff too! Maybe you’ve just turned 18 or maybe you’ve finally journeyed past the lamp post and made your way out of the closet? Great! This your best chance to get a 101 on just how much support, love, variety and make-up is out there for you – whether its checking out the sensual curves of our infamous drag queens, or taking notes and making lists of all the queer groups that will be marching down the main streets of Northbridge with pride, let’s exclaim to the world just how awesome it is being a part of a big queer family!
Apart from getting a glimpse of the creative forces which unite the community, you might be tempted to go to a gay bar for the first time, or the last time…depending on where you fit on the spectrum of queer moods… You might choose to celebrate this moment at one of the Court Hotel’s many party events, or for a really late night, Connections might be a little more indulgent. It’s a celebration, and if you look for long enough you might just find what you’re looking for. Yes my little queer sisters and brothers it’s time to meet your community.
Even if you haven’t ventured into the informative and highly recommended Queer Departments at your university, you will likely see something you like at the parade. Most of us are only getting a glimpse of the network of possibilities available to us as LGBTIQQ, so explore a little, indulge your inner sense of adventure, and spend some time stitching together an outfit, practice your silly or non-silly walks, grab a motorcycle, buy a leather vest, check out how fruit looks on your head, buy some falsies, get stiletto extensions, create an effigy of your least favourite politician, practice your dance moves, and then get on the phone to Mum and Dad and make sure they’ll be there, so you can make them proud!
Adelaide Knowles,
CCQN
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