In partnership with Delta Airlines.
After coming out, I spent a lot of time hanging around West 4th, Christopher Street, the pier, and in and around The Stonewall Inn and it’s Memorial. I would say back then that I was pretty naive to the history of LGBTQ+ communities and the significance of the landmarks to which I frequented. I was so wrapped up in myself and living my best QPOC life that I was admittedly ignorant to the fact that the spaces that I was enjoying were also places where the older LGBTQ+ generations walked, laughed, cried, struggled, and loved. With that said, I’ve grown a lot since those days of hanging out on the pier and have come to understand, respect, and cherish the struggles and the fight of those who came before me in the LGBTQ+ communities.
This year, marking the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, I celebrated my existence and enjoyed the autonomy to live life the way I want to live. However, this would not be possible without the sweat, blood and tears of the POC LGBTQ+ movement and transgender revolutionaries like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. I have immense respect for the sacrifices that my transcestors made for me, for us, and I have incredible gratitude for their courage to march the following year, creating the first LGBTQ+ Pride parade, which serves as a space to love and celebrate all that you are.
Pride in Flight
Pride is EVERYDAY! But, this Pride month was even more special than in the past. Not only were the LGBTQ+ communities and allies honoring and celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, but also, for the first time ever, New York City hosted World Pride. The streets, subways, and the city was full of rainbow flags, positive energy, and love from all over the world. To top it off, I got to walk in the parade with my Delta family.
Delta employees traveled from all over the U.S. to celebrate World Pride. It was exciting to witness how much the employees truly loved the company, felt supported, and simply wanted to be involved. One of my favorite encounters, for some many reasons, was meeting a drag Queen from Orlando. I’m not sure of their pronouns, so out of respect for their identity, I’ll refer to them as they. They were super friendly, energized, and empowered. After all that Orlando has been through, it was incredible to have this individual lead the march. Also, with it being the 50th anniversary and reflecting on those that lead the fight in 1969, the unwavering confidence that this drag queen exuded was uplifting and a reminder of how far we’ve come.
As a queer woman of color who makes travel a priority, I think it’s important for other QPOC couples to know that they can explore the world and be safe and celebrated in the process. I can say from experience, having flown Delta and now being a Delta Ambassador, that Delta is committed to diversity and inclusion, and celebrating difference. Learn more about how Delta’s inclusive culture makes them and all of us stronger!
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