Why Does a Black, Heterosexual Woman Celebrate Pride?

Before becoming a mother, my attitude towards the LGBTQIA+ community was neutral. I respected their choice of whom they loved, but I didn’t celebrate them until I became a parent, which changed my perspective.

Each LGBTQIA+ community member was someone’s child, which makes all the difference. To the best of my knowledge, both of my sons are heterosexual, but I wouldn’t love them any less if they weren’t.

It takes courage to be who you are and affirm that to the world. As a Black woman, I know all too well, that the world is not always kind or welcoming.

Watching the HGTV show, Bargain Block inspired me to honor the many gifts that this diverse population contributes to our society. A gay, white couple, Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas buy abandoned homes in Detroit, MI for an average of $1,000 renovates them, and then resells them at a very affordable price (Usually $79,000), fully furnished and exquisitely decorated with custom artwork. They say that it is their gift to the community. As someone who was nearly homeless as a teen, and then forced to lose my home through a bitter divorce, their act of selfless love means everything.