June bursts with vibrant celebrations that emphasize freedom, family, and inclusivity. At Rahway Dance Theatre, we join the chorus in honoring these diverse aspects of our community through LGBTQ+ Awareness Month, Father’s Day, Juneteenth, and Flag Day. Each observance carries a unique weight, reminding us of the ongoing fight for equality, the strength of families, and the beauty of our collective story.
Deepen Your Understanding
June is a fantastic opportunity to delve deeper into the histories and cultural significance of these celebrations. Here are some resources to get you started:
- LGBTQ+ Awareness Month: Learn about the Stonewall Uprising, a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, and explore the contributions of LGBTQ+ dancers and choreographers who have pushed boundaries and enriched the dance world. Here are some resources:
- Stonewall Uprising
- National Queer Arts Festival (NQAF): Showcases queer artists, including dancers, providing a platform for LGBTQ+ expression through dance: National Queer Arts Festival website
- Ballez: Reimagines classical ballet to include the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, bringing fresh perspectives to traditional narratives: Ballez website
- Dance/USA’s Task Force on Dance and Equity: Promotes diversity and inclusion within the dance community: Dance/USA’s Task Force on Dance and Equity website
- Father’s Day: Celebrate the supportive role fathers and father figures play in the lives of dancers.
- Consider reading “The Hip Hop Dad: Raising Kids with Beats, Breaks and Life Lessons” by Bakari Sellers.
- Learn about organizations like the National Center for Fathering: National Center for Fathering website
- Juneteenth: Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Take time to learn about the history of this important day and the rich traditions of African American dance.
- “Juneteenth” by Annette Gordon-Reed is a great resource.
- Visit the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation website: National Juneteenth Observance Foundation website for more information.
- Flag Day: Flag Day honors the adoption of the American flag. Reflect on the values it represents and how dance has been used throughout history to express cultural identity and social messages that go beyond national borders.
- Learn about how diverse cultures use movement and dance in their celebrations. Consider researching cultural dances from various immigrant communities in the United States.
- Explore “This is Our Flag: A Celebration of the American Flag” by Kate Waters, which highlights the multicultural aspects of the American flag.
Reflect and Celebrate
June is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities. By taking the time to learn, engage, and celebrate, we can foster a richer understanding and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of the dance community. RDT is proud to be an inclusive space where dancers of all identities can freely express themselves through movement.
