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Being part of the LGBTQ+ community often feels like a rollercoaster of emotions. One moment, I’m disheartened by over 250 anti-LGBTQ bills making their way through state legislatures (with 17 already signed into law), and the next, I stumble upon uplifting social media threads brimming with support for LGBTQIA+ individuals, reigniting my hope in humanity. Just the other day, after receiving a hurtful comment suggesting that Jesus opposed LGBTQ+ people, I shared a post highlighting how faith and allyship can coexist. To my surprise, many responded with photos from their churches showcasing rainbow flags and painted steps.
While we know that love ultimately prevails, it can sometimes be challenging to believe that when faced with rejection from family or a barrage of hateful messages labeling you as an abomination. In these moments, it might feel as though the world is unsupportive. Yet, there are instances where love triumphs in ways that leave you emotionally overwhelmed.
Recently, a bakery named Sweet Treats in Lufkin, Texas, experienced this emotional rollercoaster firsthand. On June 2, they shared a post featuring their delightful heart-shaped sugar cookies adorned with rainbow frosting, accompanied by a message that read, “More LOVE. Less hate. Happy Pride to all our LGBTQ friends! All cookie lovers are welcome here.” Unfortunately, this led to a significant loss in followers and a hateful cancellation of a five-dozen cookie order right after they had decorated them.
The following day, the bakery expressed their sorrow in a post, stating, “My heart is heavy. I never expected a post promoting love would lead to such backlash for a small business trying to spread joy through baked goods.” It’s heartbreaking to witness such negativity directed at them.
However, the story took a positive turn when news of the canceled order spread through social media. Sweet Treats was soon inundated with calls, messages, and in-person orders, quickly overwhelmed by the support. They reported that the line was non-stop from the moment they opened, and they sold out not just of the canceled cookies, but of everything in their shop. They even had to close early to bake more cookies to meet the incredible demand from their newfound supporters. Customers who arrived after the shelves were empty began donating money, which Sweet Treats decided to contribute to local animal shelters.
This situation is infuriating because it highlights how cruel people can be, yet it also reveals the brighter side of humanity. There are countless individuals willing to fight for inclusion and love. One of the most beautiful aspects of being part of the queer community is this unwavering support; we look out for one another. While it can feel like we take two steps forward only to be pushed back, allyship for the LGBTQ+ community has never been more visible. Despite this progress, 2021 has seen a record number of anti-LGBTQ bills introduced, echoing the past when legislative attacks increased after significant victories like the Supreme Court ruling on same-sex marriage.
This makes showing allyship more crucial than ever. The individuals driving these laws often lack understanding and empathy. They cater to specific voter bases, promoting “family values” while oppressing those simply seeking to live their lives. Acts of support, such as those shown to Sweet Treats, are essential in demonstrating to lawmakers what the majority truly values.
To those who oppose LGBTQIA+ rights, know this: we will not be silenced. We refuse to be pushed into the shadows. Love will prevail. We are not broken, nor are we unnatural. Our existence is rooted in love, and we are committed to fostering a world that celebrates diversity. If you can’t embrace this message, you’re on the wrong side of history.
And don’t forget to indulge in a delicious rainbow cookie.
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