gay pride

When a Rainbow Means Safety: Somewhere Beyond the Hatred Lies Hope

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By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2026

June 30, 2026

Why Pride Month, the rainbow flag, and the simple act of being seen still matter.

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There are moments when people ask a sincere question:

Why is there a Pride Month? Why the rainbow flag? Why all of the celebration?

For many people, the answer is simple.

Because there are still nights when someone leaves a restaurant holding the hand of the person they love and wonders if they will make it home safely.

Recently in the small city of Caldwell, a gay couple, Juan Olvera and Eric Reed, say they were enjoying dinner at a local restaurant when they became the target of homophobic slurs from a group of men. The couple left, hoping to avoid confrontation. Instead, they say they were followed, chased through a parking lot and onto nearby railroad tracks, and assaulted. One man suffered a black eye, cuts, and bruises. The other required stitches after being struck in the face. Police arrested one suspect and filed a misdemeanor battery charge. Idaho law does not currently include sexual orientation among its hate crime protections.

The physical wounds will heal.

The fear takes longer.

Juan Olvera told reporters:

“I literally thought I was going to die.”

Think about that sentence.

Not in a war.

Not while committing a crime.

Not while threatening anyone.

But simply because he was gay.

And that is why Pride exists.

The rainbow flag is not a declaration of superiority.

It is not a political party.

It is not an attack on anyone else’s beliefs.

It is a signal.

It says:

  • I am here.
  • I have survived.
  • I should not have to hide.
  • I deserve to live openly and safely.

For some people, Pride is a parade.

For others, it is a quiet acknowledgment that they made it through years of fear, rejection, ridicule, or violence.

Many older LGBTQ Americans remember when they could lose jobs for being gay.

They remember being denied housing.

They remember police raids on bars.

They remember the terror of the AIDS epidemic.

And yes, they remember the beatings.

The rainbow became a symbol because symbols matter.

Flags matter.

They tell stories.

The American flag tells the story of a nation striving toward liberty.

The rainbow flag tells the story of people striving toward dignity.

Neither promises perfection.

Both represent hope.

This story from Idaho is not offered to inflame anger or divide people further.

It is offered as a reminder.

Behind every Pride flag is a person.

Behind every Pride Month celebration is someone who once wondered whether they would be accepted by their family, their church, their community—or even survive.

Most people, regardless of politics, agree on one thing:

No one should fear violence because of who they are.

No one should be beaten for holding the hand of the person they love.

No one should have to wonder whether tomorrow will bring acceptance or hatred.

That is not a gay issue.

That is a human issue.

And until stories like this become relics of the past rather than headlines of the present, there will continue to be Pride Month.

There will continue to be rainbow flags.

There will continue to be people saying:

We are here. We are your neighbors. We are your family. And we hope one day these reminders are no longer necessary.

Benjamin Groff II
Groff Media © Truth Endures

 

The Enduring Love Story of Jon and Lester: Sudsville Pride Parade

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In the quaint town of Sudsville, population 700, lived Jon and Lester, the town’s two oldest gay men. They had been partners for over fifty years, and their love story is a beautiful testament to the endurance of true love. Every year, they led the pride parade, a tradition that had grown into the town’s most anticipated and celebrated event.


Jon and Lester, who met in their twenties at a small cafe in a neighboring town, were not just partners, but also symbols of courage and resilience. Their connection was instant and deep, and they soon became inseparable. As the years passed, they faced many challenges, but their love grew more assertive. They moved to Sudsville in their thirties, seeking a quieter life where they could be themselves without fear of judgment. Initially, their presence was met with curiosity and a hint of apprehension from the townsfolk, but Jon and Lester’s kindness and willingness to help their neighbors soon won everyone over.


Sudsville’s first pride parade was a modest affair. Jon and Lester walked hand in hand down the main street, accompanied by a handful of supportive friends and neighbors. The event was a small but significant step for the town, beginning a new era of acceptance and inclusivity.


Over the years, the parade grew in size and significance, mirroring the town’s growing acceptance and inclusivity. People from all around, including area towns and even distant cities started to flock to Sudsville to participate in the celebration. The parade became a symbol of love, unity, and pride, drawing thousands of participants each year. Local businesses thrived during the event, with hotels, restaurants, and shops bustling with activity and generating hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue.


Jon and Lester, who became local celebrities, were not just a couple but a living testament to the power of love. Their love story inspired countless people. They would ride in a beautifully decorated vintage car at the front of the parade, waving to the crowd and blowing kisses. Their smiles radiated joy and pride, and their presence reminded them of the power of love and the importance of being true to oneself.


The townsfolk embraced the parade with open arms, and in doing so, they transformed Sudsville into a vibrant and welcoming place. The event featured colorful floats, lively music, and performances by talented artists. The streets became adorned with rainbow flags, and the atmosphere was emotive with excitement and celebration.


Each year, Jon and Lester would give a heartfelt speech at the end of the parade, thanking everyone for their support and sharing their hopes for a more inclusive future. Their words resonated deeply with the crowd, leaving many in tears and inspiring a renewed commitment to acceptance and love.

Jon and Lester grew older as the years went by, but their passion for the parade never waned. They continued to lead the event with the same enthusiasm and love, their bond as strong as ever. The pride parade became a beloved tradition, not just for Sudsville but for the entire region.


Jon and Lester’s legacy lived on. Their love story became etched into the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing them. The parade they had started continued to flourish, a testament to their enduring love and the power of acceptance. Sudsville, once a quiet little town, had become a beacon of pride and inclusivity, all thanks to the love and courage of two extraordinary men.

~ SHARING IN THE PRIDE ~

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NewFest Pride

Kick off Pride month with a 5-day festival celebrating our community’s legacy and exciting contemporary stories
Showcasing film premieres, filmmaker Q&A’s, and social events 
May 30 – June 3, 2024

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NewFest Pride has it all — premieres of the year’s most anticipated queer films, conversations, parties and outdoor screenings! Check out the full lineup below. 

Get A Pass

Membership Plus Members + above get free Virtual Passes.


Learn more about becoming a NewFest Member 💖

LINEUP

A HOUSE IS NOT A DISCO (Opening Night Film & Party)

Dir. Brian J. Smith

A compelling, lovingly-captured portrait of Fire Island as queer paradise that sees past and present blur within the iconic beach town as it celebrates its collective legacy and redefines itself for a modern era. 

Ticket includes entrance to Opening Night Party at Slate.

MY OLD ASS

Dir. Megan Park

In this fresh coming-of-age story, an 18th birthday mushroom trip brings free-spirited Elliott (Maisy Stella) face-to-face with her wisecracking 39-year-old self (Aubrey Plaza).

HAZE

Dir. Matthew Fifer

A young journalist returns home to investigate the unsolved deaths at an abandoned psychiatric center in this eerie, evocative psychological thriller from writer/director Matthew Fifer (CICADA)

CLOSE TO YOU

Dir. Dominic Savage

Producer and co-writer Elliot Page stars in this emotionally observant drama about returning home as yourself and finding hope in potentially rekindled relationships

FANTASMAS (Episodes 1 & 2)

Dir. Julio Torres

A delightfully wry new series from the imagination of creator, star, writer, and director Julio Torres (LOS ESPOOKYS, PROBLEMISTA)

THE QUEEN OF MY DREAMS

Dir. Fawzia Mirza

Grad student Azra feels worlds apart from her seemingly rigid mother yet uncovers their unexpected connections on a trip to Pakistan in this vibrant festival favorite (TIFF, SXSW) from writer/director Fawzia Mirza. Ticket comes with entrance to Women’s Afternoon Out pre-screening reception

SEBASTIAN

Dir. Mikko Mäkelä

A freelance writer and aspiring novelist on his way to ostensible success in London’s cultural spheres finds a different kind of exhilaration as a sex worker in this Sundance sensation.

AM I OK?

Dirs. Tig Notaro & Stephanie Allynne

Dakota Johnson stars in this uplifting comedy from co-directors Tig Notaro & Stephanie Allynne about self-discovery, life changes, and friendship. 

BLACK QUEER PRIDE SHORTS WITH VIMEO

Join NewFest & Vimeo for a celebratory short film showcase by and about Black LGBTQ+ lives, joys, and experiences.

COMING AROUND

Dir. Sandra Itäinen

A young queer woman stands at a crossroads with her devout Muslim mother in a clash between identity and tradition.

THE SUMMER WITH CARMEN

Dir. Zacharias Mavroeidis

While enjoying a day at a clothing-optional queer beach, an aspiring filmmaker and their handsome friend collaborate on a screenplay in this whimsical summer treat.

WE’RE HERE (Season 4 Finale)

Dir. Peter LoGreco

Join NewFest and HBO for an advance screening of the Season Four finale, followed by an exclusive virtual conversation with creators and cast.

TRIXIE MOTEL: DRAG ME HOME (Series Premiere)

Tune in for an advance screening + exclusive virtual Q&A as Trixie and her partner David explore and design a dream home fit for two!

TO WONG FOO, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING! JULIE NEWMAR (Outdoor Screening)

Kick off NewFest’s new partnership with Universal Pictures – “Pride Summer Movie Nights at Rockefeller Center”

IN-PERSON + STREAMING
VIP All Access Pass — $185
Discount for NewFest Members

All in-person screenings and events (including Opening Night Film & Party, and Women’s Afternoon Out) and virtual screenings. Early access to theater and reserved seats. Learn how to fulfill passes here.


IN–PERSON
Individual Film Ticket – $19.50
Discount for NewFest Members
In-Person access to a single screening. Does not include A HOUSE IS NOT A DISCO or Women’s Afternoon Out Tickets.

Opening Night Film + Party Ticket – $50
Discount for NewFest Members
In-Person access to the Opening Night Film A HOUSE IS NOT A DISCO and the following party. 

Women’s Afternoon Out + THE QUEEN OF MY DREAMS Ticket – $30
Discount for NewFest Members
In-Person access to Women’s Afternoon Out Brunch prior to the screening of THE QUEEN OF MY DREAMS.

In-Person All Access Pass — $115
Discount for NewFest Members
Includes all in-person screenings, including Opening Night Film & Party, and Women’s Afternoon Out. Learn how to fulfill passes here.


STREAMING
Virtual Pass — $30
Discount for NewFest Members
Virtual access to select screenings. Does not include in-person Q&A’s, however there are a select number of virtual Q&A’s available. All films screening virtually are available May 30 at 12 PM EST through June 3 at 11:59 PM EST. Streaming anywhere in the United States. Individual tickets are only available for WE’RE HERE and TRIXIE MOTEL: DRAG ME HOME.

* Virtual passes and individual tickets are discounted for NewFest Members. Haven’t joined yet? Become a member today!

LOVE ENDURES THE TEST OF TIME ESPECIALLY DURING A TIME WHEN LOVE COULD BE CHALLENGED

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In the vast expanse of the Indian Territory, amidst the rugged terrain and the promise of new beginnings, two souls found each other amidst the chaos of land claims and dreams of prosperity. Vol Wilhelm Groff, a spirited young man with a penchant for adventure, and Joseph McElroy, a quiet and contemplative soul, crossed paths in the unforgiving landscape of Oklahoma in the year 1905.

The Indian Territory was a land of opportunity, where dreams clashed with harsh reality, and where individuals staked their claims in the hopes of carving out a future for themselves. Val and Joseph were among those brave souls, drawn to the promise of a better life on the frontier.

Their meeting was serendipitous, a chance encounter amidst the chaos of land rushes and bustling settlements. Val, with his infectious enthusiasm, captured Joseph’s attention from the moment they first locked eyes. Despite their differences in temperament, they found a deep connection that transcended words.

Val and Joesph
Photo Taken In Okarche Oklahoma

As they worked side by side, staking their claims and building their homesteads from the ground up, their bond grew stronger with each passing day. Amidst the challenges of frontier life, they found solace in each other’s presence, drawing strength from their shared dreams and aspirations.

But theirs was a love that dared not speak its name in the harsh reality of the early 20th century. In a world where societal norms dictated strict conformity, Val and Joseph had to tread carefully, concealing their love from prying eyes.

Yet, despite the obstacles they faced, their love endured, a beacon of hope in a world fraught with uncertainty. Through the trials and tribulations of frontier life, they remained steadfast in their devotion to each other, finding solace in the quiet moments shared beneath the starry Oklahoma sky.

As the years passed and the Indian Territory evolved into the state of Oklahoma, Val and Joseph’s love stood the test of time, a testament to the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. And though their names may have been forgotten by history, their love story lived on, a reminder that true love knows no bounds, not even the vast expanse of the American frontier.

Forty Three Years And Counting

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In the picturesque fusion of a town that captures the charm of Mayberry and the boundless frontier of Star Trek, two hearts found a love that defies time and space. Meet Ben and Steve, a couple whose love story is as enchanting as it is enduring—a beacon of hope and resilience that inspires all who witness it.

Ben and Steve

Steve, whose eyes sparkle like the constellations he admires, has always been a dreamer, casting his gaze toward the heavens with wonder and curiosity. On the other hand, Ben embodies justice and bravery, fearlessly chasing down thieves and reclaiming stolen cars. His badge shines brightly as a symbol of his commitment to protecting others.

Their worlds may seem galaxies apart, with Steve whispering messages to the cosmos through his microphone and Ben upholding the law with unwavering dedication. Still, these very differences make their love story so captivating. United by a love transcending boundaries, they lean on each other, their bond unbreakable, and their passion ever-growing.

Their love story began over four decades ago, a chance encounter that set the stage for a lifetime of shared dreams and unwavering commitment. Fourteen years ago, they leaped into matrimony, not just as a legal union but as a testament to their enduring love and resilience. In the face of uncertainty, it was a promise that their love would remain steadfast and accurate, and no matter what challenges lay ahead or rights that might be under threat, they would forever be united.

As the years have passed, their love has only grown stronger. They still greet each day with breakfast together, their laughter and companionship a testament to their enduring friendship and love. When future generations look back, marveling at how they managed to keep the flame of love alive for so long, the answer will be simple: it’s because of Ben and Steve and their unwavering passion and commitment to each other.

So, here’s to the kisses shared and the laughter exchanged, the dreams dreamed, and the challenges overcome. Their happiness is a daily reminder of the power of love, a beautiful reality that reminds us all to believe in the magic of true love. Cheers to Ben and Steve, whose love story inspires and enchants us all, proving that true love is timeless and everlasting.

QUESTIONING AND REEVALUATING LONG-HELD BELIEFS AND ENCOURAGING DIALOGUE, UNDERSTANDING AND ACCEPTANCE?

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The documentary “1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted a Culture” delves into a controversial and thought-provoking topic that challenges conventional beliefs about the Bible and homosexuality. Directed by Sharon “Rocky” Roggio, the film examines the claim that the Bible originally did not mention homosexuality and that references to it were added due to mistranslation and misunderstanding of ancient Greek terms.

The film highlights the work of Christian scholars who delve into forgotten archives at Yale University to uncover the origins of this mistranslation. It argues that conservative Christians began to propagate this mistranslation in the 1970s to scapegoat the LGBTQ+ community and oppose their growing liberation movement.

Roggio, who identifies as a lesbian and is the daughter of an evangelical minister, engages in dialogues with her father throughout the film, attempting to find common ground and challenge his beliefs about homosexuality being a sin. This personal narrative adds depth and emotion to the documentary, as it explores the complexities of faith, identity, and acceptance within a family divided by differing views on sexuality and religion.

The documentary sheds light on the potential harm caused by misunderstandings and misinterpretations of religious texts, highlighting the real-world consequences faced by LGBTQ+ individuals who have been marginalized, discriminated against, and even persecuted due to these beliefs.

Overall, “1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted a Culture” offers a compelling perspective on a contentious issue, urging viewers to question and reevaluate long-held beliefs and encouraging dialogue, understanding, and acceptance.

1-888-843-4564

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Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline 1-888-843-4564. “The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline provide telephone and email peer-counseling, as well as factual information and local resources for cities and towns across the United States.