A lot of us woke up this past Saturday, opened our windows and felt the warmth of an approaching summer — prompting us to welcome June with a smile on our faces. I would like to invite you to keep that smile and remember what this month means and represents for thousands and thousands across this nation.

ID 106423663 © Kristine Laurio | Dreamstime.com

It’s not a secret June is a significant time for the LGBTQ+ community; not only is it the commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City, but it’s also a time to celebrate diversity, visibility and, well, love. I didn’t grow up around so many people being able to speak their truth, celebrate who they are and who they love, let alone be able to be more than a label, so every year I take this month to reflect on what Pride means to me.

To me, Pride is one of the best forms of self-love, self-awareness and, if you really think about it, it’s almost like a state of mind. Said “state of mind” helped me understand the importance of living authentically and how to stand up for others when they are not able to do so for themselves. I long for the day in which all love is understood, respected and accepted for what it is: LOVE; my Pride helps me fight to make that come true.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising and, for the first time, New York City will welcome WorldPride — it’s going to be epic! You can already feel the vibrant and positive energy of New Yorkers and how eager to celebrate and honor this historic movement we all are. As expected, people from all over the world will flood all five boroughs to join the party, but don’t panic: trazeetravel.com has you covered!

Brandon Schultz gives us a breakdown of the key hotels to stay in to be close to the fun and save some money while you’re at it in this article. Make sure to check it out and plan ahead to get the most out of the experience.

Now, what does Pride mean to you?

— Yasser Ogando, production & advertising coordinator