It was rejected, deemed revolting to many and was quite honestly something no one accepted. Being gay was simply not the norm, it was an abomination. The people of the time were encouraged to throw hate toward others who were gay.

Today we are witnessing an uprising, one that is taking steps toward equality for all. What was once never talked about before is now making its way into the mainstream. The LGBTQ+ community is influencing today’s culture in ways that are shaping the future of the world to be kind to all.

The community is finding their voice in the world and with it, they are making way for equality and rights, something long deserved for so many. The gay community is no longer in hiding, but in the spotlight playing fictional characters or themselves in TV shows, movies, and even in music.

This outlet of pop culture is what’s helping shift the country’s view on the LGBTQ+ community from hatred to kindness and acceptance. With allowing same-sex marriage, the acceptance of a gay child in a family and so many more advances, they are making their way toward a new era that embraces being oneself. Same-sex marriage was unheard of 40 years ago, but every day brings on more advances, revolving around a central goal. A goal of the world not viewing gays as disgusting or abnormal, but rather the norm and just people at heart.

The transition from years of hostility to embracing the community is overwhelming. Being gay in the past was more than a struggle, it was almost unbearable. With today’s adaptations, it’s no longer an abnormality to be gay, it’s just who that person is.

Now people are expressing who they are through pride parades, parades with the sole purpose of embracing who people are and being surrounded by people who love what they are. These nationwide parades are a huge step forward for the community as it helps spread the message that love trumps hate and, more importantly, that being gay is okay.        

Social media is a huge outlet for the community, providing a place for people to share their stories and talk amongst each other, allowing people to learn about the community making progress in substantial ways.

From rejection came acceptance. From hatred came kindness. Now is a time when being gay is no longer viewed as the worst possible thing a person could be. Thanks to popular culture, the transition from hate to love has been smoother. The LGBTQ+ community has done nothing but progress in today’s culture. Growing closer and closer to to the goal of acceptance for all and showing those that people are people no matter what sexuality they may be.

Now is a time to embrace everyone, disregarding the barriers that separate people from others. Change is happening for the community, change that is affecting the world.