Pride 2023 🌈
Inclusivity, acceptance, and celebration of diversity are at the core of Myssfit Magazine's ethos. As we join the world in commemorating Pride Month, I would like to express our unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community and share my thoughts on this significant occasion. I also extend our gratitude for the understanding and encourage you to celebrate with us in this blog post, as we make a digital space to honor this important topic. (scroll down for features 🌈)
Pride Month: A Time for Celebration and Reflection
June is a month of vibrant colors, parades, and events that bring people together to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. It is an opportunity to honor the courage, resilience, and triumphs of individuals who have fought for equality and acceptance. Pride Month reminds us of the progress we have made while inspiring us to continue advocating for equal rights for all.
Embracing Diversity: A Pillar of Strength
At Myssfit, we firmly believe that diversity is a powerful force that enriches our lives and communities. By embracing the LGBTQ+ community, we celebrate the unique stories, experiences, and contributions of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer. Their bravery in living authentically and facing challenges head-on inspires us to create a more inclusive society.
Amplifying Voices: A Platform for Expression
As an alternative magazine, we strive to provide a platform for voices that are often marginalized or unheard. We recognize the importance of providing space for LGBTQ+ individuals to share their stories, art, and perspectives. Through our digital platform, we can amplify their voices and create a safe and supportive environment for expression.
Allies: Supporting the LGBTQ+ Community
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community goes beyond self-identification. It requires active allyship and understanding. As a magazine, we commit to being allies by promoting visibility, education, creativity and acceptance. We acknowledge that there is still work to be done, and we stand with the LGBTQ+ community in their ongoing fight for equality and justice.
Gratitude: Thanks for Understanding Our Digital Space
We are grateful for the understanding of our readers regarding the decision to present this issue in a blog format rather than a physical copy. While the number of submissions was lower than anticipated, we believe that the digital medium allows us to reach a wider audience and spread the message of love, acceptance, and pride. Your support and engagement with this online edition are truly appreciated.
Please see features and submissions below. Be sure to like, share and follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Happy Pride 🌈🌈🌈
Model: Kayla Moats IG: @cherrii_onatopp
Photographer: Ruben Kappler IG: @rubenkapplerphotography
Website: https://www.rubenkapplerphotography.com/
Model & Photographer: CT IG: @cokebottle_thunderthighs
Personal Story:
When I was in preschool, I had my first boyfriend. Apparently. I have no actual memory of this but my mother has retold the story of our adorable mini courtship many times. He was a year older than me and called me cute nicknames. We liked to claim sleeping pads next to one another at nap time.
When I was in 2nd grade, I had my first crush on a girl. I didn’t know that’s what it was until much later because no one told that story. There wasn’t much to tell, I guess. Except that I thought she was so pretty and nice and cool… that I never actually worked up the nerve to befriend her. I did name a doll after her, though.
I first came out as Bisexual when I was 14 and my mom said “but you like boys.” And I really didn’t know what to say to that. I came out to her two more times over a decade before she started to remember. Even now that she has many, many queer friends through her synagogue and proudly wears her “Mom hugs” rainbow pin, there is a long pause when I refer to myself as queer.
I consider myself incredibly lucky that I have overall acceptance from those closest to me, that I have been able to thrive in a mostly liberal state and build my chosen family. That doesn’t mean I haven’t and don’t face bi-phobia and bi erasure on a regular basis. It’s just easier to not feel so affected by it. I try to use the facets where I have privilege to bolster others.
Because I do know safety, one of my greatest goals in life is to help create and hold it for those who struggle to find it for themselves.
Happy Pride month <3
Model: Nicole & Pride Parade
Photographer: Coleyy-Leann Photography
Location: Rochester, NY
Model: ElleXL IG: @elle_in_space
Photographer: Ruben Kappler IG: @rubenkapplerphotography
Website: https://www.rubenkapplerphotography.com/
Model: Cali DuCane IG: @caliducanemodel
Photographer: Cali Prints Photography IG: @caliprintsphotography
Model: Sir Guy IG: @sirguydrag
Photographer: Ruben Kappler IG: @rubenkapplerphotography
Website: https://www.rubenkapplerphotography.com/
Model: Zooey Gaychanel IG: @zooeygaychanel
Photographer: Ruben Kappler IG: @rubenkapplerphotography
Website: https://www.rubenkapplerphotography.com/
Model: Sophia VonStardust IG: @sophiavonstardust
Photographer: Ruben Kappler IG: @rubenkapplerphotography
Website: https://www.rubenkapplerphotography.com/
Model: Amanduh Heaux IG: @AmanduhHeaux
Photographer: Ruben Kappler IG: @rubenkapplerphotography
Website: https://www.rubenkapplerphotography.com/
Model: Johnny Rockett IG: @johnnyrocketking
Photographer: Ruben Kappler IG: @rubenkapplerphotography
Website: https://www.rubenkapplerphotography.com/
Models:
Red: Air Marie IG @ari.marie.3
Orange: Ali Accio IG: @accioali
Yellow: Siren of the Circle IG: @sirenofthecircle
Green: Kita IG: @pilsburydough.bitch
Blue: Lyd Elle IG: @lyd.elle
Purple: Jay Le'Toile IG:@jayletoile
Photographer: Enchanted Memories by Amy IG: @enchantedmemoriesbyamy
Website: https://enchantedmemoriesbyamy.com
Creative Director: Enchanted Memories by Amy @enchantedmemoriesbyamy / @TruehartPhotography
Beauty Makeup: Jay Le'Toile @jayletoile_mua
Glitter Makeup: Dew Drop @dewdrop_333
"Pride means fighting for equality, for rights, to be accepted for being ourselves. It is not only a fight though, what started and is continued by the fire of a fight that we still need to fight for, is also a celebration of who we are. June is always a reminder to celebrate who you are, who you love, and living fully as yourself."- Amy
Pride Month is a time to come together as a community and celebrate the beautiful tapestry of LGBTQ+ identities. Through our alternative magazine, we express our unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community and reaffirm our commitment to promoting equality, inclusivity, and understanding. We encourage everyone to be proud of who they are and to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community not just during Pride Month, but every day. Together, let us create a world that embraces diversity and fosters love and acceptance for all.
xoxo
Bree