The University of Washington kicked off Pride Month on Monday with a ceremonial flag raising. Just after noon, the large rainbow flag — the Progress Pride Flag — unfurled to cheers from a crowd of about 100 people, the largest gathering in the history of the Pride Flag raising on campus.
While speakers at Monday’s event reflected on the solidarity and importance of community, the ceremony also served as a time to mourn the loss of Juniper Blessing, the University of Washington student slain last month. Blessing identified as a part of the UW LGBTQIA+ community. A moment of silence was held in Blessing’s memory.
“Pride Month signifies a time of joy and celebration, but it also marks a time for unity, remembrance, and solidarity,” Alan Galvez, co-chair of the UW Queer Faculty Staff Alliance and a senior advisor in the UW Student Activities Office, told the crowd. “Juniper Blessing lived her life the way she felt was right for her. To live in a world authentically as yourself means that you may face a world that may not understand you, but that’s where we use our voices and stand strong together, so we ensure that no one gets left behind or forgotten in our challenges ahead.”
Pride Month commemorates the 1969 Stonewall riots, when queer activists sparked a lasting gay-rights movement. Seattle’s gay pride activities culminate at the end of June with a parade that draws thousands of visitors.
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University leaders on Monday also announced the Juniper Blessing Memorial Scholarship to support students whose leadership, community involvement or lived experience reflects a meaningful connection to the LGBTQIA+ community and who are studying or actively engaged in music at UW. Blessing was an atmospheric sciences and music studies sophomore and a member of the University Chorale.
“As we begin Pride Month, I encourage all of us to celebrate in the spirit of love, resilience, openness, and joy,” said Rickey Hall, vice president for Minority Affairs & Diversity and the UW Diversity Officer. “Even as we grieve, we can honor one another by showing up for community and carrying forward the values that pride represents.”