Pride Without Permission: Local LGBTQ+ Leader Reflects on Resilience Amid Rising Attacks

Citrus County, FL Release:  June 4, 2025. For Immediate release  

As Pride Month begins across the country, Nathan Sharp, President of the LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus of the Nature Coast Region, is calling attention to the deep challenges facing LGBTQ+ communities in Florida and nationwide—especially under the current political climate.

“In Citrus County and across the Nature Coast, Pride may never be officially recognized—and that’s okay,” Sharp said. “For many of us, Pride has never needed a proclamation to be real. It began at Stonewall in 1969 as a protest led by trans women of color. That spirit of resistance still matters today because the threats we face haven’t disappeared—they’ve evolved to become more dangerous and deadly.”

In a public statement released this week, Sharp highlights how LGBTQ+ people are increasingly targeted in legislation, school policies, and political rhetoric, while real issues—like cuts to healthcare, food assistance, and emergency preparedness—go unaddressed.

“This administration would have Americans believe that the existence of LGBTQ+ people, especially our trans brothers and sisters, is somehow a threat to what makes America great,” Sharp said. “But the truth is, the real threat lies in the dismantling of vital programs like Medicaid, SNAP, FEMA, and the NIH—programs that support everyday Americans.”

Despite the heavy political climate, Sharp’s message is ultimately one of perseverance.

“I still believe,” he said. “Because we’ve been here before. Our community has never asked for permission to exist. Pride has always been about showing up, even when it’s hard. Our visibility is resistance. Our joy is defiance.”

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About NCR LGBTQ Dems

The The LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus of the Nature Coast Region represents the LGBTQ+ community to the Democratic Party in Hernando, Sumter and Citrus Counties, encourages voter registration, promotes an active interest in politics, and supports Democratic candidates who are committed to the principle that all persons deserve equal rights regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

We value diversity and welcome anyone who shares our vision.