Why Pride Parades Should Be Reconsidered

When discussing the existence of Pride Parades, a common sentiment is that they shouldn’t exist because sexuality is a private matter and individuals should not act differently. However, the reality of these events often entails public displays that go beyond mere private matters, such as nudity and explicit behavior. In this article, we will explore the arguments for and against Pride Parades, particularly in relation to the exposure of children and the broader social implications.

Public Display of Nudity and Sexual Behavior

Pride Parades, at least in Canada and the USA, often feature explicit displays that you might not expect. From naked individuals exhibiting their sexual organs to adults engaging in activities like licking penis-shaped lolly pops, these events can be quite revealing. The social acceptance of such behavior has led many to view Pride Parades as open and inclusive spaces where people can freely express themselves.

It is worth noting, however, that the open nature of these parades can lead to issues of public decency and the exposure of children to mature content. When adults bring their young children, particularly those as young as 10 and 12, to such events, the public feels it is inappropriate. The same behavior witnessed in strip clubs, where such activities are restricted to adults, would be a significant social taboo and could result in legal consequences or social rejection.

The Consequences for Youth

The experience of discussing these concerns often aligns with personal narratives. For example, a recent incident involved a young individual who was told by their therapist that their parents were concerned about potential bullying due to their visible LGBTQ identity and open demeanour. The parents expressed fear that the child might be bullied at a new school. This fear was compounded by the child’s active involvement in Pride Parades, marked by visible rainbow pins on their backpack.

These pins serve dual purposes: they are symbols of the child’s identity and their desire to be seen and accepted for who they are, but also as a tool for finding romantic and loving partners without the burden of continual questioning and guessing.

The teenager’s response to learning that their parents had communicated these concerns to their therapist was one of sadness and hurt. The therapist’s intervention added another layer of complexity to what was already a highly emotional and traumatic situation for the young individual. The emotional fallout from this experience has led to a sense of depression and a feeling of doubt regarding their safety in the world.

Implications for the LGBTQ Community

The issue of Pride Parades and their impact on youth highlights a broader discussion about the balance between visibility and safety. While Pride Parades are undoubtedly important for LGBTQ individuals to celebrate their identity and advocate for acceptance, they must be mindful of the potential exposure of young children to mature and sometimes inappropriate content.

One possible solution could be to designate specific Pride events for adults only, or to ensure that these events are held during times and in locations where children are less likely to participate. This could help maintain the spirit of Pride while addressing concerns about the exposure of young minds to explicit content.

In conclusion, while Pride Parades are crucial for the LGBTQ community, thoughtful consideration must be given to the potential risks and consequences for youth. It is essential to ensure that these events promote inclusivity and acceptance without compromising the well-being of younger participants.