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???Day 3: Honoring Black Queer Pioneers: Foundations of Our Fight??? Today, we honor the incredible Black queer pioneers who have been instrumental in both the civil rights and LGBTQ+ movements. From Marsha P. Johnson's fearless activism during the Stonewall Riots to Bayard Rustin's strategic brilliance in organizing the 1963 March on Washington, and James Baldwin's eloquent critiques of race and sexuality—these trailblazers have paved the way for the freedoms we cherish today. ???Key Highlights: Marsha P. Johnson: Co-founder of the Gay Liberation Front and STAR, advocating for homeless LGBTQ+ youth and sex workers. Bayard Rustin: Close advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and key organizer of the historic 1963 March on Washington. James Baldwin: Brilliant writer and social critic whose works like "The Fire Next Time" challenged racism and homophobia, fostering greater empathy and understanding. Their legacies remind us that our liberation is deeply intertwined, and their bravery continues to inspire our fight for justice and equality. Quote of the day: "History is not the past. It is the present. We carry our history with us. We are our history." – James Baldwin ?? Read more and join the conversation on my Substack newsletter In solidarity and empowerment, Desireé B Stephens #Pride #Juneteenth #BlackQueerPioneers #Intersectionality #CivilRights #LGBTQ #SocialJustice #CommunityBuilding #Liberation #EquityInEducation

?? Are You Understanding & Embracing Pride? For some, this message may hard to understand. Pride month ?? is not just about sexuality, and it’s not the time to say “What people do behind closed doors is none of my business”. Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall Riots, which began on June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. This event was a response to the police raids and harassment that LGBTQ+ individuals faced regularly. I cannot imagine being harassed or my home raided for whom I choose to love, can you? ?? Pride is about making the LGBTQ+ community visible. For many years, LGBTQ+ individuals were forced to hide their true selves. Pride celebrates the courage to be open and proud of one’s identity. ?? Pride is about advocating for equal rights and social justice. It’s a time to reflect on the progress made and recognize the work still needed to achieve true equality. ?? Pride events foster a sense of community, providing a supportive environment where people can connect and find allies. ?? Pride is about acknowledging the history of struggle, the victories won, and the ongoing fight against discrimination and prejudice. It’s a reminder that love is love and that everyone deserves to live authentically without fear. ?? For those who like to quote the Bible and are against pride ??, let us remember that Jesus exemplified love and acceptance. He spent time with society’s marginalized and outcasts, showing all the way of compassion and understanding. Some might say that Jesus was the biggest liberal in history because he challenged the norms of his time and advocated for radical love and inclusion. ?? Here are some powerful verses you may wish to reflect on: -“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." John 13:34 -“Judge not, that you be not judged." Matthew 7:1 ?? Are you celebrating Pride by honoring its roots and continuing to advocate (not only in June) for a world where everyone can live with dignity and respect. #Pride #LoveIsLove #PrideMonth #UnityInDiversity #LGBTQHistory #StonewallRiots #Equality

Sometimes, you don’t realize the significance of what you’re building until years later. Back in 2003, Maurice Franklin, Keith Boykin, and I co-founded the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC). What started as a vision between friends—yes, we were close long before NBJC—became a national movement rooted in justice, equity, and liberation for Black LGBTQ+ people. NBJC’s mission has always been about more than representation; it’s about real, systemic change. From federal policy to intersectional equity in education, health, and economic opportunities, NBJC has stayed true to the work we started when it wasn’t popular or easy. Back then, advocating for Black LGBTQ+ lives wasn’t just overlooked—it was revolutionary. We were talking about intersectionality before it was a buzzword, building coalitions, opening doors, and forcing the tough conversations. And while the work is far from over, looking at what we created fills me with pride. The friendship that started this work has stood the test of time. Maurice, Keith, and I believed in something bigger than ourselves, and that belief continues to connect us to this day. It’s proof of what happens when friendship and purpose collide in the best way possible. I’m incredibly proud of the legacy we’ve built. NBJC reflects the power of vision, determination, and love for our community. Seeing how it’s grown and continues to push for change reminds me that the seeds we planted two decades ago are still bearing fruit. This work mattered then, it matters now, and it always will. Our legacy is one of courage, persistence, and an unwavering belief in the power of justice. I wouldn’t trade it—or the friendships that made it possible—for anything. #NBJC #Legacy #BlackLGBTQ #Intersectionality #Justice

?? Celebrating Juneteenth! ?? Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This historic day symbolizes the end of slavery in the United States and represents a significant milestone in the fight for equality and justice. Juneteenth is a time to reflect on our history, honor the resilience and contributions of Black Americans, and recognize the ongoing struggle for true freedom and equality. It's a celebration of Black culture, achievements, and the unyielding spirit that continues to inspire us all. At Radiant Health Centers, we believe in equality for all, and we believe in compassionate care and support for everyone regardless of their race, color, faith, origin, sex, or orientation. We recognize there are still hurdles we face in overcoming bias and discrimination in our own communities. But we stand in solidarity with our Black and LGBTQ+ communities so that no one is left behind. Together, we can create a world where everyone is free to be their true selves. ???????? #Juneteenth #EqualityForAll #RadiantHealthCenters #LGBTQ #BlackLivesMatter #Celebration #CompassionateCare #InclusiveCommunity

2SLGBTQIA+ history is rich with resilience and pride — from the Stonewall Riots to the fight for marriage equality. Sharing 2SLGBTQIA+ history is vital for disrupting the dehumanization that the community has faced throughout time. Educating others about these events not only honors those who fought for justice but also allows 2SLGBTQIA+ folks to learn about their ancestors. By amplifying 2SLGBTQIA+ voices and stories, we challenge the harmful narratives influencing the policies and classrooms today. Let's celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community — their struggles, achievements, and contributions — so can dismantle stereotypes and combat discrimination. Learn more about our Disrupting Dehumanization framework at TheMoriahGroup.com Photo 1: Bayard Rustin, civil rights activist, speaking with young children of color before a demonstration in 1964. Courtesy of Library of Congress. Photo 2: AIDS quilt on display in Washington, D.C., with the U.S. Capitol in the background. Courtesy of Library of Congress. Photo 3: A gay rights demonstration at the Democratic National Convention in New York City. Courtesy of Library of Congress. Photo 4: A portrait of Bessie Smith, a Black, queer woman who was one of the greatest blues singers of the Harlem Renaissance. Bessie was also an advocate for marginalized communities and often challenged the oppressive nature of domesticity and conformity. #LGBTQHistoryMonth #LGBT #2SLGBTQIA+ #LGBTQRights #Dehumanization #CivilRights #BayardRustin #BessieSmith #QueerAncestors #QueerHistory #LGBTQHistory

We all want to belong. In order to truly belong, we need to fully be ourselves. This requires vulnerability. If you’re LGBTQ+ or part of an underrepresented community, multiply the vulnerability factor by [some exponential number]. If you’re underrepresented, the vulnerability required to be yourself can feel like a daily act of defiance. AND we can transform that defiance into empowerment by doubling down and standing firmly in our truth. It may be scary at times. But love and joy and peace sit in our truth, at our core. It’s the place where we unlock our full potential. It’s the place of possibilities and impact. It’s the place from which we may change hearts and minds. It’s the place we all owe it to ourselves to live. #lovewins ******* Thank you, Brené Brown. Since it’s worth repeating (over and over), here’s the transcript of her video: “Belonging. We’re wired for love. We’re hardwired for belonging. It’s in our DNA. But let me tell you what belonging is…the opposite of belonging, from the research, is fitting in…. Belonging is belonging to yourself first…speaking your truth…telling your story. And never betraying yourself for other people. True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are. It requires you to be who you are. And that’s vulnerable.” - Brene Brown #lovewins #belonging #beyourself #vulnerability #growwithapro

"I think it is critical that people who would otherwise be left outside of this field have not only representation but support as they consider whether this work is for them." For our last PRIDE month profile, we proudly share this feature of TAP mentor Emanuel Powell III, a litigation associate at Jenner & Block LLP. Click over to our website (https://lnkd.in/esmr8f9k) to read his full profile, including how his community's support for each other growing up shaped his commitment to social justice, but for now, read one excerpt here: Q: How often do you encounter other LGBTQ+ attorneys, particularly those of color, in the appellate field? Why do you think that representation is important? A: I have been lucky to work for judges and organizations that have been committed to working with talent from diverse backgrounds. I am also at a law firm where several leaders are openly members of the LGBTQ+ community. Even so, the reality has been that I am often the only Black attorney in many spaces, especially when it comes to the appellate bar. I decided to become a TAP mentor primarily for this reason, because I think it is critical that people who would otherwise be left outside of this field have not only representation but support as they consider whether this work is for them. #LGBTQ #Pride #AppellateLinkedIn

February marks LGBTQ+ History Month here in the UK and Black History Month in the UK. Then they switch around in November. It's striking just how much more important these events are in 2025. Sometimes it can feel like we're moving backwards...and in many ways we are. What we're seeing at the moment should be helping us double down on our efforts for equality. But I completely understand if they are also making some of us feel like nothing we do is enough and that they've run out of energy for the fight. LGBTQ+ History Month was launced in the UK on the back of the repeal of Section 28 in England & Wales in 2004. It had been repealed here in Scotland in 2000. But it's lasting impact on our society is still far too visible. I was born the year Section 28 was introduced and left school just as the law was removed. That meant an entire school career where it was literally against the law for my school to teach me that I was ok. That I was normal. That I deserve equality. But I'm all too aware that I say this as a middle class white man. With that privelege comes a platform to shout louder about the work that still needs to be done. About why so many are being left behind. We might look to the US and think we're immune to the impact of the policies we see in the news. But far from it. So this LGBTQ+ History Month and beyond let's get louder. Not because we want to raise awareness or gain visibility. But because we want genuine change for every LGBTQ+ person. We're angry for a reason. #LGBTQ #LGBTHistoryMonth #LGBTQHistoryMonth #Representation #Equality #DEI #DEAndI #GetLouder

Coming out is never just a one-time thing. Once you start coming out, you keeping coming out throughout your life in various settings. Doing so at work can often be one of the most difficult decisions to make. I think all LGBTQ+ individuals have both good and ... not-so-good experiences with coming out at work. I know I sure do. And, it can often feel like a burden to constantly have to "teach" people about your identity. Luckily, times have changed since I came out at my first job -- in no small part to the trailblazers who paved the way. These courageous individuals, and their active allies, created opportunities through DEI advocacy and the creation of Employee Resource Groups, which have truly made created safe spaces for many individuals. Being seen, heard, and accepted is all anyone truly wants in life. Having that foundation of acceptance at work makes a huge difference in success, not just for the individual, but for every aspect of the business they touch. Today, I'm happy to hold space for anyone and everyone. My goal is to ensure everyone has a voice and an opportunity to bring their whole self to work. I'm so glad I got to share some of my story along the way, but more importantly, I got to hear the stories others felt comfortable sharing with me. And that has made my career so much richer. #NationalComingOutDay #LGBTQ #Pride #DEI #ERG #LGBTQhistorymonth

In respect for Pride Month, toth shop is recognizing friends and collaborators, stories and insightful words among those in the LGBTQ+ communities. We are proud to share your voices with our toth shop community. Some 101 today: How, when & where did the word and brand 'Pride' originate? Craig Schoonmaker, a longtime activist and member of the New York planning committee for the first Pride Parade held in June 1970, didn’t fully realize how much of an impact his words would have when he proposed “Pride” as the event’s slogan. In an interview years later, he reflected on why he chose that specific word: “The poison was shame, and the antidote was pride.” Today, Pride is embraced by millions across the globe. It’s a time to celebrate and commemorate the contributions made by the LGBTQ+ community to history, society, and cultures worldwide. For business owners, it’s a time to re-evaluate your own words and how you are communicating with your customers through copy & content. Here’s an easy start - prioritize inclusive language. Our language has the ability to normalize the ideas or beliefs of a society, and it only requires micro shifts: + Use gender neutral pronouns? + Use people-first phrases? + Not using phrases rooted in homophobia, racism, sexism, etc.?? + Learn the appropriate, modern descriptors for groups For more tips, check out this blog about “writing copy in the era of conscious consumerism” penned by Steph Nagl. A link to Steph's piece is linked in comments below.?