06/06/2026
"Books have always been at the core of expanding empathy and understanding, and have been essential in sharing both histories and hopes for the future." 💛
When folks wished me a happy Pride at the start of June, I thanked them and didn't think much of it. Being openly and visibly q***r and trans is a part of my life that I'm fortunate enough to take for granted. But then I saw someone in my neighbourhood had put up a homophobic banner. And then I remembered.
I remembered that I'm scared for my q***r and trans friends in the States and the UK. I remembered that being gay is criminalized in 65 countries, and is punishable by death in 12. I remembered that the fact that I've never felt "broken" growing up is thanks to all of the advocates who've come before me, and the work they've done.
There's still more work to do, and it's clearer than ever that we have to protect what wins we've gained. Pride has always been about speaking up against injustice and lifting each other up, and it still is today.
On our website, you can find a list of our "Pride month favourites", as well as a list of books by Two Spirit, trans, and nonbinary authors I've currated. I'm looking forward to making some posts this month spotlighting excellent trans + q***r books, and as always, I'm happy to give personalized recommendations for both fiction and nonfiction.
Books have always been at the core of expanding empathy and understanding, and have been essential in sharing both histories and hopes for the future. We are so proud to be part of that legacy with you.
Happy Pride, everyone. 🌈
- Icarus (they/them)
