DLA Troop Support “Pride Month” observance focuses on importance of acceptance

PHILADELPHIA -

Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support partnered with the Naval Supply Systems Command Weapon Systems Support to celebrate Pride Month on June 27.

Pride Month is celebrated in June in honor of the Stonewall Riots of 1969, in New York's Greenwich Village, where patrons of the Stonewall Inn stood up to police oppression. The riots transformed into a civil rights movement and global call-to-action promoting equality regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

President Barack Obama issued a presidential proclamation in 2009 officially recognizing June as Pride Month, calling for tolerance and acceptance.

"[Our] youth should feel safe to learn without the fear of harassment, and LGBTQ families and seniors should be allowed to live their lives with dignity and respect," he said. "These issues affect not only the LGBTQ community, but also our entire Nation. As long as the promise of equality for all remains unfulfilled, all Americans are affected. If we can work together to advance the principles upon which our Nation was founded, every American will benefit."

Ryan Sallans, a specialist in the fields of orientation and gender development, served as the keynote speaker, focusing on the theme "Pride in All Who Serve-A Place for All."

Sallans, a transgender male, shares his experiences with corporations, healthcare institutions, federal agencies, universities and communities to further promote equality in the workforce. He also serves as a consultant, lead author, and subject-matter expert for an extensive range of e-learning courses used around the nation to train healthcare professionals and staff seeking continuing education around serving the LGBTQ community.

He said people's experiences differ as they discover their sexuality while facing societal pressures. He explained to the audience that acceptance and open-mindedness is important.

"I found bravery and strength to get through moments [of prejudice]-to let me know this is not going to last forever. There's reasons you continue to move forward," Sallans said. "Allow people space to share information if and when they feel appropriate or share information if it's something that they're working through."

Based on his own experience, Sallans explained how he found solace in the acceptance of his true identity and the resulting community support he received.

"I instantly knew who I was and I finally felt affirmed," he said. "Look at what happens when you honor what your inner self is trying to tell you. What happens when you don't let fear of judgment or prejudice keep you from being who you are. This is so healing. This is amazing."

Sallans explained the significance of tolerance and acceptance, highlighting how much it meant throughout his journey.

"I begin my talks saying hello my name is Ryan. It's so nice to meet you. There's so much power when you can share your name. There's so much power when you hear people saying it back to you. It makes you feel seen. It makes you feel heard and makes you feel human on this planet."

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