I’ve been out as asexual since 2008, but until today, I’ve never dared to go to Pride. I didn’t think I’d be welcome. Boy, was I in for a nice surprise when I took the plunge and went to Dallas Pride today.
You could find almost every kind of flag on the steps of this church in
the hours before Pride (the aro flag isn’t in this pic, but it was
there!). The church itself was not only accepting, but welcoming,
hosting a sermon about universal love before the parade, passing out
water during the parade, and opening their building for people who
needed a break from the late-summer Texas heat.
We were even represented in the parade itself (twice!).
Along with cowboys. This is Texas, after all.
And Canadians. XD
Met some fantastic new friends – at least ten new aces in total, plus plenty of awesome non-ace people!! Including the even-more-incredible-in-real-life Asexual Pirate! (Thanks again for the button, ribbon, and photo, @aroaceinyourface!)
When I first discovered my asexuality, I wasn’t sure if I would ever have something like this. If I would ever be able to go to Pride and talk to gay and lesbian people, bi people, pan people, trans people, genderqueer and nonbinary people, straight allies, and yes, other asexual (and aromantic) people, and confidently say, “I’m ace” without hesitation or even a need for explanation. As far as I know, only one older gay couple had to ask what “asexuality” meant, and they were polite and respectful.
So … thank you to the aces and allies who have made this community a place where I can finally come out and show my pride in public.
(And thanks again for letting me borrow your cape, Ian!)
willowfoot 