To the editor:

The word “pride” in “gay pride” refers to that sense of self-respect and personal dignity that each of us in our diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community has­—just like everyone else. This is the opposite of shame ­—a technique that was heavily misused in the past to malign and marginalize us—and unfortunately, still is. That is why we gather together to support each other and celebrate our identities during gay pride every June. We choose to be open and honest about who we are.

East Central Minnesota is very fortunate that the Men’s Circle, a local grass-roots organization, hosts the annual picnic in the park in Pine City. It is a peaceful, fun gathering for LGBT residents and their families, friends and allies. Anyone and everyone is welcome to come to the pride picnic to get to know us better.

As a former long-time resident of Grasston, I can tell you that we are right here in East Central Minnesota and not over there in Ireland, Canada or Africa. We span the entire political spectrum; some of us are even Republicans. Some of us go to church. Some of us are in committed relationships. Some of us even raise children. We study, work, pay taxes and vote. We also love, hate, laugh, cry, get sick, get well, succeed and fail—just like everyone else.

Ultimately, we want to be treated equally under the law with dignity and respect. Why would anyone want to “protest” this “agenda”?

As for HIV/AIDS, it affects everyone and is therefore a public health issue for every one of us.

Our celebration of gay pride is a reminder to each of us that gay people have always been, and will continue to be, a vital part of our society.

Lane Lucht

Rochester, New York