Wow, what a rough couple of months. The oil spill is still spewing, and the spoiling of the Gulf and our coast grows more horrifying. Greece is threatening our “We Were This Close” economic recovery. The Koreas are about to bring their sibling rivalry to explosive levels. And Jersey Shore has been renewed for another season.
Thank God for Pride.
In the scheme of it all, it might seem like a small thing. But that’s what’s so great about our Pride season. No matter what’s happening in the world, this global LGBT holiday gives us the chance to reflect on how much has been accomplished, celebrate it, and renew our energies for the battles that, inevitably, lie ahead.
At press time, the repeal of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” looks extremely promising, plus a new bill is now being offered up to counter the “Defense of Marriage” amendment. However, in most states, firing someone for their sexual orientation or gender identity is still legal. Even though there is still more work to be done, equality is happening. And that, friends and family, is reason to celebrate.
For over 17 years now, our staff has been proudly publishing OutSmart for the community. While we have sadly witnessed the unfortunate demise of other community publications, we are humbled by the support we continue to receive. To our family of readers and advertisers, we thank you. We really cannot do it without you.
And once again, OutSmart is thrilled to be the Official Guide of Pride Houston, featuring your play-by-play rundown of all the Pride things to see, the Pride people to get to get to know, and the hot Pride events happening in Houston this month. And we debut the OutSmart Pride Achievement (OPA!) award, which we give to beloved community activist Ray Hill whose humor, intelligence, and stamina has shaped the Houston LGBT community more than we could come close to describing.
So use this Pride Guide and this Pride season to your advantage. Be proud. Pat yourself on the back. Party. Then put your shoulder to the wheel. There is good work to be done. Not just for our rights, but for the rights of everyone. There are some real problems to tackle—together.That’s what Pride’s all about.
We can do this. We’ve done it before.
Cheers,—Greg Jeu, Publisher and the staff of OutSmart
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