We’re celebrating Pride Month in style and have launched an exclusive-to-Rue tee, with proceeds benefiting GLSEN. GLSEN is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students – regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
Our tee features “Proud to Be ____”, and throughout Pride Month, we’re asking our employees to fill in the blank. Today, we’re chatting with Michelle Labbé from our Copyediting Department.
Rue La La: Who or what are you proud to be?
Michelle Labbé: A lesbian. When I first had inklings that I wasn’t straight, it felt terrifying. I was 12 years old. It changed everything that I imagined my life was going to be. But as I got older, as I sought out queer media, as I had my first relationship, I realized how many different ways there were to be who I was. It was freeing.
RLL: What does love mean to you?
ML: I’m engaged and currently trying to outline my wedding vows, so this is a great question! To me, love is knowing you’re not alone in the world.
RLL: What can our Members do as activists for the LGBTQ+ community?
ML: I feel strongly that being pro-LGBTQ+ isn’t something anyone just is – it’s something you do. Challenge casual homophobia and transphobia when you see or hear it. Use people’s preferred pronouns. Donate to pro-LGBTQ+ causes. And if you’re an ally, listen to members of the community – make sure you’re not speaking over them.
RLL: How are you celebrating Pride month?
ML: My fiancée and I will be marching in the Boston Pride Parade with RGG! This will be her first time going to Pride, and we’re both thrilled. It feels good to be supported and seen by my company.
RLL: Who in the LGBTQ community inspires you?
ML: I’d say Dan Levy, co-creator of (and actor on) Schitt’s Creek. He’s created meaningful queer representation with characters who don’t fit neatly into categories or stereotypes. Being LGBTQ+ is never a teachable moment or “very special episode” in the plot. There’s never any special fanfare around queerness, or any sense that the writers are patting themselves on the back for being inclusive. Queer relationships are allowed to just be, and that’s rare.
RLL: Did you know about GLSEN before today? What do you think about their efforts?
ML: Not by name. I was familiar with the Day of Silence, and participated in that every year in college. I think what they’re doing is really important – I would not have felt comfortable or safe coming out at my high school down in Virginia. Middle school and high school are a vulnerable time for any kid. No one should have to hide who they are or face harassment for their identity.
*Between the dates of May 31, 2019, and June 30, 2019, we will donate 100% of the net proceeds (up to 250 units) from the purchase of this item to GLSEN.
By Rue Staff
