Halifax • 2019-05-17 • Chris Cochrane
Hello! My name is Chris Chochrane, or as most of you know me, Elle Noir, your 2019 Pride Ambassador.
I've been asked to say a few words on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, which started as a day to come together and show love and acceptance for all, but as remembrance for those who fought for our rights to be ourselves.
This is the fiftieth year after Stonewall, a time in history that started a movement that would become the catalyst of change. This event was started by two trans women of colour, Marsha P Johnson and Silvia Rivera, two women in our community tired of being persecuted for being themselves.
Here we are fifty years later and we are still fighting the battles.
I am always asked if acceptance and tolerance is higher now; my answer is always, "No." There has always been this much hatred and phobia in the world, except now we have people in power that are allowing hatred to be on display.
I say that now, representation and visibiility are more prominent. But visibility isn't enough. Using the platform of visibility will propel us to a time where we no longer need a day dedicated to alleviating hate from the world.
The proclamation that Mayor Savage has put forth today is a step in the right direction. Now we must take that step and run with it. Life is a marathon, and I am willing to run alongside our 2SLGBTQUIA BIPOC community along with our allies, to finally rid the world of homophobia, transphobia and biphobia and hate in every form.
Because our voices matter, we matter. Be true to yourself. Let the world know we have always been here, and always will be here. Thank you.
