Editor:

    In the month of June, gay pride is celebrated around
the world. On June 16 Portland had their pride festival and it was not
just about being proud of who you are, but about everyone coming
together for equality and embracing social justice.

    Typically in events such as that, you find only the
folks who are a part of the community going to events such as the pier
dance, the parade, or the gay men’s choir, but now you see friends,
family, straight couples, different religions, and people of different
ethnic backgrounds having a great time and enjoying living in a place
that is accepting and fun.

    Even though we have laws protecting the gays and lesbians from discrimination, it still exists.

    This festival gives an opportunity to celebrate how
far we have come and how far we still need to go to have full equality.

    Today I think we have evolved into a more accepting
society from when I was a kid and I hope that continues in the future.

    In this day of war and conflict in the Middle East
and around the world, it’s nice to know that communities can come
together and love one another without orientation barriers.

Terry Morrison

South Portland