Celebrating the Diversity of Pride

June is Pride month here at Vertical Harvest Farms. It’s not only a celebration, but a time to deepen our understanding of the diverse spectrum that makes up human sexuality. While research and education are certainly not limited to one month a year, we view Pride as a purposeful time to learn and broaden our minds and hearts.

Johnny Fifles, Vertical Harvest Senior Farm Associate, has always been outspoken about his community. He agreed to not only share a few thoughts about Pride month (see below), but also a piece of art he recently completed (see above). Featuring the flags of different groups across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, this handmade card captures the true meaning of Pride: being the full, vibrant colorful human being you were born to be!

1. What does Pride mean to you? Pride means to me that everyone should have a right to be who they really are without being judged.

2. Why did you decide to create the Pride card? It was for art class. I always like doing art.

3. In your opinion, what should more people understand about the LGBTQIA+ community? Sexual orientation and gender identity are dimensions of a human being, just as disability and skin are.

4. In your view, what issues facing the LGBTQIA+ community can Pride help shed a light on? That the LGBTQIA+ community should have a right to be safe from ANY harm.