In a powerful speech, Reverend Dr. Robert Griffin of Sunshine Cathedral in Florida passionately addressed the congregation and the wider LGBTQ+ community about the urgent need to transform Stonewall Pride into a protest. Reverend Griffin shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly due to targeted attacks on their rights by Governor Ron DeSantis. The Reverend called for unity and action in the face of these injustices, emphasizing the importance of preserving the true spirit of Pride.
Stonewall Pride: From Celebration to Protest
Stonewall Pride, a month-long commemoration of the historic Stonewall Uprising, holds significant importance to the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. The event celebrates the brave individuals who fought back against police oppression during the 1969 raid on the Stonewall Inn. However, Reverend Griffin highlighted that Governor DeSantis has been systematically targeting LGBTQ+ rights, particularly those affecting the youth, schools, drag performers, and transgender individuals. As a response to these actions, Reverend Griffin proposed transforming Stonewall Pride from a celebration into a protest
Banning Drag Performances: A Reprehensible Act
One of the key concerns raised by Reverend Griffin was the banning of drag performances at Pride events. This decision is seen as deplorable, considering that drag and transgender heroes were at the forefront of the Stonewall Uprising. These courageous individuals stood up against oppressive and unfair treatment, often facing routine harassment and discrimination. By banning drag performances, the celebration of their heroic acts is being undermined, which Reverend Griffin deemed unacceptable.
Marching in Protest: A Call for Solidarity
To address these rights violations and send a strong message, Reverend Griffin called upon members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to join in the protest and march at Wilton Manor Stonewall Pride on June 17, 2023. By actively participating, individuals can express their support for drag performers, transgender individuals, and other marginalized groups within the community. Reverend Griffin emphasized that this protest is not an issue to be taken lightly; it is an important stand against the erosion of rights that the community has fought hard to secure.
Preserving the Spirit of Pride
Reverend Griffin shared personal experiences and highlighted the historical significance of Pride parades as acts of protest. While acknowledging the progress made over the years, the Reverend reminded everyone that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights is far from over. The current attempts to silence and erase queer people in response to advancements in marriage equality and diverse leadership highlight the underlying issues of white supremacy and Christian nationalism. Reverend Griffin emphasized the need to focus on issues such as gun control, rather than targeting drag queens and trans individuals who have been unjustly singled out.
Conclusion
The impassioned speech by Reverend Dr. Robert Griffin resonated deeply within the LGBTQ+ community in Florida. With his call for transforming Stonewall Pride into a protest, he shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by the community and the urgent need to defend their rights. This rallying cry for solidarity and action serves as a powerful reminder that the fight for LGBTQ+ equality continues, and every individual must actively contribute to preserving the true spirit of Pride. By joining the protest, participants can demonstrate their unwavering support for the marginalized members of the community and send a resounding message that their rights cannot be silenced or erased.
Governor Ron DeSantis has been attacking LGBTQ+ rights, targeting schools, youth, drag performers, and trans siblings. Laws targeting and prohibiting drag and trans performers at Pride events are calling for action. Join the protest and march with Sunshine Cathedral on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at Wilton Manor Stonewall Pride.
Contact Reverend Dr. Robert Griffin at robert@sunshinecathedral.org to participate and march.
