I never truly understood the importance of pride amongst the LGBTQ+ community. For me, it was a long weekend of going out with friends, enjoying a few drinks, and wearing bright colours. This past weekend, I attended only my second pride even though I have been out since 2012. This year was different. I have been teaching foreign students for the past month or so. As the pride festival is a week-long event, many shops in the city sold rainbow flags, badges, glasses, clothes, etc. I wasn’t sure how some of the young students would react to this celebration. More specifically, I was worried about the Russian student’s reaction to this.
Russian law shows that same-sex couples are not equal to heterosexual couples. LGBTQ+ people are not protected and a frightening percentage of Russians support violence, abuse, and even death against the LGBTQ+ community. It scares me to think that such a large country is so hateful to a minority, especially as I am part of this minority. What I experienced in teaching these students showed me how important pride truly was to someone struggling with their sexuality.
I saw these Russian students embrace the pride festival. They purchased flags and badges, face paint and hats. They asked questions about the festivities around the city. It was warming to see them immerse themselves in a culture that now accepts the LGBTQ+ community as equal. However, there was an incident that resonates in my mind and it angers me to think of it. One young girl arrived at school with pride badges on her bag and her jacket. Her Russian teacher, who traveled with the students became so angered by these small badges, she started shouting and belittling this poor student. A 16-year-old girl, being given out to by a grown woman is wrong on so many levels. As you can imagine, this girl was upset and angry that someone was trying to change her views. At the end of the week, the main event of pride, the parade, took place. I attended with my girlfriend and some friends. As the day progressed, I saw pictures of a group of lovely Russian students walking in the parade, sporting their flags. I can’t explain the pride I felt for them. They had a wonderful day and it was something they cannot experience in Russia.
I understand that Russia has different rules and regulations. I also understand that this grown woman and many others have views based on not knowing any better. They come from a country of oppression and sometimes I do believe that their views are not their own fault. However, I will not tolerate someone smothering another person’s views. It is harmful to young teenagers mental health and sense of worth to not be able to celebrate who they are.
Pride’s meaning has changed in my eyes. These students showed me their strong beliefs will trump anyone who tries to get in their way. They made me proud to know them and I think people can learn a lot from their actions.
Organised Chaos 