Celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride Month and African American Music Month

This is a special post written by Charles Warren, Curriculum Developer at Triangle. Charlie is also a member of Triangle’s Racial Equity Committee. As part of our commitment to the work of our Racial Equity Committee, we will be sharing more information with you on subjects related to racial equity and disability justice. This post continues our series dedicated to calling attention to the contributions of people with disabilities to American history.

Billy Porter

To celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month and African American Music Month, we are highlighting Billy Porter, the multi-talented artist, advocate, and Broadway star. Porter is an acclaimed actor, singer, and LGBTQ+ and disability rights advocate. Porter is famous for his fashion and sense of style, and has challenged stereotypes and set trends for men by donning an array of incredible dresses from high-fashion designers at high-profile events.

In addition to walking red carpets, winning an Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award (only one Oscar away from the coveted EGOT status), Porter brings his presence and spotlight to Pride events around the country. He is diagnosed with HIV, and his openness about living with a disability helps to reduce stigma and normalize the experience of disability culturally. 

In addition to being a celebration of all LGBTQIA+ pride, love, and inclusivity, Pride Month also commemorates the struggle for gay liberation in the face of exclusion, discrimination, and violence.  These challenges continue to be present, which is why embracing and celebrating is so important.