Pride Doesn't End Here

Pride Month may be over, but that doesn't mean you're no longer celebrated. You are celebrated, and you are loved.

As a Japanese citizen who has spent the vast majority of her life in New Zealand, I have engaged with and learned so much from members of the LGBTQIA+ community. To hear your beautiful stories, stories of triumph, of love, of support and authenticity, of defiance against rigid societal expectations, alongside the tragic stories of hiding your identity, of fears about coming out, of struggling with liking everyone or no one, of hearing “you'll find the right person” or “I can change that.” I love you all.

In 2026, I look at a world where your rights have seen both setbacks and wins, from LGBTQ+ education in Japan to the Definitions of Woman and Man Amendment Bill in New Zealand. I want to remind you that you are completely valid, deeply loved, and that you belong with us all.

As a cisgender heterosexual woman, I am aware of the need to look out for marginalised groups. I created this webpage so that you know I didn't just put up a banner for Pride Month only to take it down at the end of the month. Even when times are tough, you are incredibly strong and vital to the very fabric of society. No matter how difficult it may feel right now, there is always rain before the sun.

Please feel free to familiarise yourself with the resources on this webpage. I hope Kuma has been a positive addition to your community. Allies, please consider supporting these amazing organisations in any way you can. Even letting your community know can be incredibly supportive.