We are watching a horrifying rise in hate, over 900 anti-LGBTQ+ incidents in the past year alone.

More than half targeted transgender and gender-nonconforming people. Local officials, educators, and librarians trying to create safe, inclusive spaces have also come under attack. This is not acceptable.

This is not just numbers. These are our neighbors, our friends, our teachers, our children. They are being threatened, harassed, and in some cases, violently attacked—just for existing, for supporting others, for choosing kindness.

We are demanding immediate action. Federal and state authorities must crack down on anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes and threats. Protect LGBTQ+ communities, protect our educators, protect the leaders who are standing up for human rights.

Pride should not come with a warning label or require police protection. It should be a celebration of life and dignity.

This is urgent. Pride Month is here, and history shows this is when hate spikes. We cannot let this happen again. We call on leaders at every level to treat this as the emergency it is.

Speak out. Show up. Stop the hate.

Photo: GLAAD