BY: Gabriel Lopez Kafati, Anthony Corona, and Leah Gardner
The words “Pride Connection” can evoke so many meanings. Pride gives us a sense of honoring and celebrating who we are. Connection gives us a sense of sharing and friendship. The marriage of these two words and ideas forms the basic premise of BPI’s weekly internet radio show and podcast.
A little over 20 years ago, the connection between LGBTQ members of ACB was found in small rooms tucked into the recesses of Convention hotels. Hard work and determination grew these meetings into a strong group that led BFLAG to legitimate affiliate status. Phone calls, then e-mail lists gave way to discussion lists and various forms of text-messaging groups. Early on, Inside Out, (our quarterly publication), formed and was a primary means of circulating the voice of BPI and its members.
In the last 20 years, the world has exploded with so many new means of communication and BPI always led new trends, culminating with a wildly-popular Whats App group and an ever-changing Inside Out; but our members wanted more, and Pride Connection was BPI’s answer.
Late last year, BPI’s Board of Directors decided to create a podcast to further the voices of advocacy, education, and, of course, the fun our affiliate is known for. It was an interesting journey with a few stops and starts, until we partnered with ACB Radio, and began creating shows.
Since February of this year, Gabriel, Leah, and Anthony have helmed BPI’s Pride Connection. Tim Cumings and Byron Lee have worked behind the scenes to produce a show that is one of the most listened to within the ACB family of podcasts.
We started the party with important subjects, such as: blind parenting, online dating, working blind and of course, the various colors of the LGBTQ rainbow.
BPI members have highlighted topics and persons of interest to our intersectionality; one of the brightest of those being our phenomenal interview with transgender Councilwoman Rosemary Ketchum of West Virginia. Celebrities and authors, LGBTQ shows, and music have been fun topics covered.
Recently, BPI members have stepped into the roles of co-hosting and creating show topics and ideas. With almost a year into this fantastic journey, our podcast is only getting better and better. With more participation from the Membership at large, we are considering taking a bold and brave step to grow our platform and global exposure by partnering with the Patrion platform.
Pride Connection was once a tiny kernel of thought that transformed into a weekly blend of education, personal stories, and surprising revelations. We strive to create community among all listeners through our dynamic presentation, candid commentary, and promotion of empathy. Once, Pride Connection was a glimmer of a concept. We achieved more than we ever imagined since our debut in March of 2020.
Please join us as we continue to raise the bar higher. We are proud of the work we have accomplished but know we are capable of so much more. So, stay tuned in and involved; help keep the connection strong.