Celebrating Pride: Queer successes and challenges of 2024

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Pride 2024 fades as the month of June comes to an end. This celebratory month came with both successes and challenges for queer people.

The LGBTQIA+ community along with other minorities continue to have their rights re-examined through the legal lens. The state of Oregon continues to bring ballot initiatives to the table to protect minority groups. The "equal rights for all campaign" is looking to explicitly ban discrimination against abortion rights, health care access, and marriage.

This fight comes at an important time with Republican-controlled states adopting policies that look to ban gender-affirming care and restrict drag performances. Also on the decline is the support Republicans once had for gay marriage. A Gallup poll over the last week showed that 40% of Republicans believe gay marriage is morally acceptable. That's down from the 56% reported in 2022.

Marriage equality in Oregon celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year. That is one of many successes being recognized during this Pride Month. Emma Jerome took a look back at when marriage equality took place in Oregon and spoke with some of the trailblazers during that time in the KOIN 6 Special, "Celebrating Pride".

Another success celebrated this month is a locally developed app making strides across the globe. "Everywhere Is Queer" is a new app that KOIN AM Extra spotlighted back in February, but now it's become the go-to app for finding queer-friendly spaces. Travis Teich followed up with the app's creator, Charlie Sprinkman, after launching the job application feature for the queer and ally-owned business through "Everywhere Is Queer".

It's not just an app that is bringing queer individuals together, but a non-profit group is working to bring marginalized groups together out in nature. "Wild Diversity" is working to change the lack of marginalized groups that get to enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Emily Burris laced up her hiking boots to stroll through Forest Park in Portland with the diverse group of outdoor enthusiasts.

The great outdoors is a reset for some while others turn to religion. It's not always easy for the LGBTQIA+ community to feel welcome in religious institutions, but a local United Methodist Church is hoping to change that. Jenny Hansson spoke with people from the clergy to church members who have been impacted by the changes the church has made. Back in April, a ruling by the United Methodist Church made a major change to rules surrounding queer individuals. These changes have helped decrease the fear of sanctions and even allow same-sex marriages to take place.

These successes for the LGBTQIA+ community are celebrated not only during the month of June, but year-round. Some of the fighting forces on the frontlines for equality have been drag performers. Portland's queer community has rallied around Oregon's first National Historic queer sight for the last 57 years. Darcelle XV Showplace has been a Portland staple. Owner and performer Walter Cole, best known as Darcelle XV passed last year, but the legacy the performer built lives on through the safe space created. Meteorologist Josh Cozart spoke with Cole's daughter and son along with show hostess, Poison Waters, on how the iconic club is keeping the fun alive.

The month of June gives the queer community a moment to celebrate its success. It's also a reminder that the fight for equality remains across the country.