The LGBTQ+ community in Indianapolis has experienced a remarkable transformation since the first Gay Pride Week was held in 1976. This event, organized by the Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) and the Gay Peoples Union, marked a turning point for the queer community in the city. Nowadays, more than 20 cities and towns in Indiana, including Indianapolis, have passed anti-discrimination ordinances that protect the LGBTQ+ community and are enforceable. Terell Parker is an African-American who founded Indiana Pride of Color, which celebrates the intersection of race and culture in the LGBTQ+ community. According to Kit, this event has been of great significance to the queer community, as it has brought about a tremendous change in society in Indianapolis and the state of Indiana.
Myranda Warden and Elle Roberts, two ICRC ambassadors, are members of the LGBTQ+ community who share their ideas on For Good. Both were born and raised on the west side of Indianapolis, heavily involved in their grandfather's church as Sunday school teachers and artists. Despite facing some resistance and discrimination in Indiana, they have noticed that many feel more welcome in Indianapolis today. MAP works to ensure that all people have a fair chance to seek health and happiness, to earn a living, to care for their loved ones, to be safe in their communities and to participate in civic life. Holding the event at The Circle provides an educational and pleasant environment for the Indianapolis community at large to enjoy the speakers and artists. Gay-lesbian relationships existed in ancient communities in Rome and Greece and are shown in a variety of art from that time.
Gays and lesbians exercised this constitutional right no less than in the Monument Circle area of Indianapolis, in view of many Indianapolis citizens who came to see what gays had to say. The LGBTQ+ community has come a long way since 1976, but there is still much work to be done. The annual event organized by Indy Pride is an important step towards creating a more inclusive society for all.
