Allied in Pride

I marched in the Portland Pride Parade in the HP, Inc. section on June 18, 2019 along with my husband, who is an HP, Inc. employee. The experience made me think and feel and think some more.
As I walked through the streets lined with people out to show their support for the LGBTQIA community, I listened to people shouting supportive words, saw people with shirts and signs offering “Mom hugs” and “Dad hugs”, and saw people embracing their identities without hesitation. It was a beautiful to see so much support and love being expressed.
After a bit it occurred to me that several of the people in the crowd likely assumed I am…