In Their Own Words: What Pride Means to Our Team

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June marks LGBTQ+ Pride Month—a time to celebrate identity, visibility and the ongoing pursuit of equality. In recognition of this meaningful observance, we invited Overlake team members to share what Pride means to them—in their own words. 

“Pride Month is a time to celebrate love, identity and the ongoing fight for equality. It is about visibility, celebration and honoring the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a time to reflect on the progress that’s been made, while also recognizing how far we still have to go. Pride is about showing up—for those who are out and proud, for those who are still figuring things out, and for those who don’t feel safe being themselves yet. It’s about creating a world where everyone is accepted and seen for who they are. It’s not just about rainbows and parades—it’s about dignity, safety and inclusion.” – Abby, Overlake team member  

"Pride to me is a time to both celebrate and reflect. It's a moment to honor the achievements that the LGBTQIA+ community has made in its pursuit of social justice and equality. To be grateful for those who have come before and the struggles they endured so that people like me can marry the people who we love and enjoy the rights and privileges everyone else enjoys. At the same time, Pride is a meditation on the challenges that we as a community still face. Much has been achieved but much still remains to be done so that all members of our community can be lifted up equally." – Ian White, MD, Surgical Oncology

“We celebrate during Pride Month to showcase the joys and struggles our community has been through together, and to continue to fight for our right to live life on our own terms.”  – Neal Cragg, ARNP, Palliative Medicine

“As a queer person, Pride Month has always been a time of celebration, reflection and visibility. But this year feels different; it brings a swirl of emotions and a profound sense of urgency. In the face of growing political and media anti-queer sentiments and international efforts to roll back the rights of LGBTQIA+ people, Pride is no longer just a celebration—it’s a form of resistance. It’s a declaration that we will not be erased, that our identities are not up for debate, and that our lives and rights are worth defending. This year, Pride feels heavier. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come, but also how fragile that progress can be. It’s a call to action—to stand up, speak out, and support one another in the face of adversity. And it’s a moment to reaffirm that being visible, proud and united is more important than ever. Pride Month is not just about joy—it’s about justice. And for me, showing up this June is both a personal act of courage and a public commitment to a future where all of us can live freely, safely and authentically.” – Shelby, MSN, RN

“Pride Month is a celebration of identity, love and acceptance, no matter who you are and who you love.” – Emily, Overlake team member  

“Pride is a reminder of the resistance and struggles of the LGBTQIA+ community throughout history, while also recognizing and celebrating the strides we have made in advancing human rights, celebrating diversity and being able to have 'pride' in who we are as human beings.”  – Tyler Kuhk, ARNP, Pulmonology

“Pride Month is a time to reflect on our progress and where we still need to go to be a more inclusive society. True inclusion takes ongoing education, open dialogue and a welcoming environment—especially in healthcare, where understanding helps us better support LGBTQIA+ people.” – Monica, RN, IBCLC

"As an ally, it is important for me to continue the conversations and to be involved in providing safe spaces, awareness and contributing to an equitable community for all. A sense of belonging and inclusivity is important for every individual. I will continue to advocate for my family, friends, and entire LGBTQ+ community as love is love and every human is worthy and special." – Rory, Overlake team member