From Hawaii, With Joy

By Ariella Assouline

When I think about our grantee in Hawaii (which I do very often), one word comes to mind: JOY.

Our grant recipient in Hawaii has been bringing nonstop joy for two years straight. I am always so excited for October to come around because I know it’s Honolulu Pride, an event students attend with the support of our 50 States. 50 Grants. 5000 Voices. program each year. This year, roughly 100 students from seven Gender & Sexualities Alliance Clubs attended Pride, decked out with handmade signs and a trolley helping them navigate the streets of Honolulu. 

Just look at what seventh-grader Sophiya had the honor of experiencing at Pride. 

“A kūpuna (Hawaiian word for ‘grandparent’ or honored elder) took an It Gets Better button and told me…

‘I’m in my 70s and I’m living proof it does get better.’

People were so happy to see us, and the crowd cheered louder when they saw we were students. It was such an awesome pride!”

“What more powerful way to tell queer youth ‘It Gets Better’ than to show them the vibrant community that is, and will be, there for them in their futures,” faculty advisor Sarah observed.

It’s moments, quotes, and photos like these that remind us of the power of our work. Of our ability to connect LGBTQ+ youth to each other and their communities. Of our responsibility to mentor and help shape the LGBTQ+ leaders of tomorrow by walking side-by-side supporting them today. 

Joy is resistance. Joy is essential. We can not allow joy to be taken away from LGBTQ+ youth.

Stay Proud!

Ariella