Proud Voices event creates dialog within KMC

In honor of Pride Month, the 86th Airlift Wing special observance committee hosted a safe space discussion called Proud Voices, Wednesday, June 28.

“Proud Voices is a safe space where people from all walks of life come together to ask questions and discuss different experiences and topics without discrimination, criticism, harassment, bullying or shame,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Briana Lucas, 86th Medical Support Squadron resource management office noncommissioned officer in charge. “This event helps open the channels of communication between members of the Ramstein Air Base community, allies and those who just want to understand the perspectives and experiences of the LGBTQI+ community.”

During the event, there was a presentation slideshow educating all attendees on the history of the LGBTQI+ community. Additionally there were highlights of the history and experiences of the transgender population for awareness. A panel of members shared their personal stories and experiences to help start the discussion and create a safe environment. After the panel discussions, attendees broke off into smaller groups to participate in guided discussions and share personal experiences.

Hosting the event on base allows base and wing leadership the opportunity to show support for the LGBTQI+ members serving at Ramstein AB, said Morgan Evans, 86th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron physical evaluation board liaison officer. The event gave the members of team Ramstein the freedom to detail some of their experiences not just as part of the Kaiserslautern Military Community, but also what they have experienced while serving our country as someone in the LGBTQI+ community.

“The goal of this event was to bring together those who may generally feel too embarrassed to ask questions, fear asking questions and those who wish to show their allyship toward this community,” said Evans. “In short all proud voices events are for anyone with a healthy and respectful curiosity.”

In addition to Proud Voices, Ramstein AB special observance committee held a color run, and a safe-space story time that focused on inclusivity and providing ways for the community to celebrate and to grow and learn together.