Supporters of LGBTQ Take the Streets of Washington D.C.

On Sunday, June 12, tens of thousands of LGBTQ supporters took to the streets throughout Washington D.C. in retaliation to threats posed by the Trump administration.  The threats included recent measures within schooling districts that have hindered transgender students from using desired bathrooms.  Because of this, many in and outside of the LGBTQ community have become angered due to such guidance from the White House and the federal government; the next course of action was thus demonstration.

Hordes of demonstrators flooded the streets that Sunday, parading “past the White House and toward the Capitol, trailing behind a giant rainbow flag near the head of the procession.”  Among the many chants that were shouted that afternoon, the most prominent voiced, “We’re here, we’re queer, get that Cheeto out of here.”

Not only driven by the hindrance of transgender students from using school bathrooms, many were also sparked by President Trump’s campaign initiative, originally advocated as a potential ally of homosexuals.  Now, it can be seen that Trump filled his administration with LGBTQ opponents, such as Vice President Mike Pence, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, and Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price.

In addition to the patriotic songs of freedom that were sung, scores of choruses from various cities made appearances throughout the parade.  “It’s an opportunity to tell everyone we’re still here, and we’re not going away at all,” says Gregory Elfers of the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters led the crowd of marchers in a chant of “Impeach 45,” while many carried signs reading “Love Trumps Hate”.  She voiced, “We’re going to take our country back from him.  I know that you have the strength.  I know that you have the courage,  And I know that each of you understand you have the power.”

While protesters that day were fueled by the existent inequality among the LGBTQ community, others participated in the march as part of an effort to fight battles that affect their daily lives.  One demonstrator notes, “I participated in the march because I come from an environment that is very religious and anti-LGBT—it’s pretty awful every day, so it’s nice to see so many people gathered for one cause and be of the same mindset.  Everyone there either understands or sympathizes with what it’s like to be in such a hateful environment.  It’s just such a positive atmosphere because of that.  Yes, I’m gay, but I don’t have to hide my relationship or be ashamed of it.”

Brian Pendleton, the organizer of the demonstration, said that the current political climate of the United States drove everyone together that Sunday.  He believed that everyone there stood against “regressive policies.”

Recognizing that there are many other issues in the world that need support, he adds, “This year, the LGBTQ community is lending our iconic rainbow flag to anyone who feels like their rights are under threat and to anyone who feels like America’s strength is its diversity.”

Featured Image via Wikimedia Commons