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History, Heritage, and a Slice of π (Pizza, Pie, and Pride!)

Charles Hall

March is a month dedicated to celebrating the richness of our diverse community through history, heritage, and even a dash of math-inspired fun! During Women's History Month—officially recognized nationwide in 1987 and originating from a local week-long celebration in Santa Rosa, California, in 1978—we pay tribute to influential LGBTQ+ women. Among these remarkable individuals are Sally Ride, the pioneering first American woman in space who advocated for LGBTQ+ representation in STEM; Billie Jean King, renowned not only for her legendary tennis career but also for advocating gender equality through her historic "Battle of the Sexes" victory; Audre Lorde, whose powerful poetry and activism challenged us to explore intersectionality, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ identity; Marsha P. Johnson, a leading figure in the Stonewall uprising whose relentless activism significantly advanced transgender rights; and Laverne Cox, whose groundbreaking presence on screen and vocal advocacy continue to amplify transgender visibility and rights. Celebrating these leaders helps us appreciate the depth and diversity of our shared history and the strength we find in each other.


Join us on Pi Day (March 14), a playful celebration built around a delightful pun on the mathematical constant π (pi)—the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter, approximated as 3.14. The tradition started in 1988 at the San Francisco Exploratorium, where physicist Larry Shaw gathered colleagues to celebrate math with pie-eating, circle-themed activities, and good-natured fun.


Since then, Pi Day has grown into a global phenomenon that unites math enthusiasts, food lovers, and communities alike, providing a joyful excuse to savor delicious pies and pizzas, share laughter, and explore infinite possibilities together. For our Dulles Triangles community, it’s a tasty and whimsical way to build connections, embrace camaraderie, and find your tribe—one slice at a time!


On March 17, we embrace the festive spirit of St. Patrick's Day, an annual celebration honoring St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Originally a religious feast day established in the early 17th century to commemorate St. Patrick’s missionary work in Ireland, it has evolved into a lively cultural event celebrated worldwide. Popular myths, such as St. Patrick banishing snakes from Ireland, add colorful storytelling to the day.


However, the holiday’s history is nuanced for the LGBTQ+ community, notably in places like Boston and New York City. Historically, some LGBTQ+ groups faced exclusion from traditional parades due to discriminatory policies, sparking ongoing debates and activism advocating for more inclusive celebrations. Today, through continued advocacy, many communities proudly host inclusive and welcoming celebrations, reflecting the progress and ongoing efforts toward acceptance and unity. At Dulles Triangles, we embrace this opportunity to honor heritage, foster understanding, and ensure everyone feels seen, valued, and celebrated.


Warmest regards,

The Dulles Triangles Board of Directors


📚 Featured Articles: Celebrating History, Heritage, and π

Dive deeper into our themes of history, heritage, and a touch of fun this month! These carefully selected articles celebrate the groundbreaking accomplishments of LGBTQ+ women, the delightful mathematical quirkiness of Pi Day, and the rich heritage and evolving inclusivity of St. Patrick's Day.


🌈 Billie Jean King Led a Revolution in Women's Sports and LGBTQ History

Billie Jean King's legendary career in tennis transcended sports, becoming a powerful force for LGBTQ+ visibility, gender equality, and societal change.


🏳️‍⚧️ Sarah McBride Becomes First Openly Transgender Person Elected to Congress

Celebrate this historic achievement as Sarah McBride breaks barriers, becoming a prominent voice for transgender representation and LGBTQ+ advocacy on Capitol Hill.


🥧 National Pie Day vs. National Pi Day—What's the Difference?

Discover the playful differences between these two celebrations, and explore why Pi Day (March 14) has captured our imaginations—and our appetites—with its math-inspired charm.


🍀 LGBTQ Groups Finally Invited to Staten Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Explore the historic inclusion of LGBTQ+ groups in the Staten Island parade, marking progress toward acceptance and equality in traditional celebrations.


☘️ What Is St. Patrick’s Day and Why Do We Celebrate It?

From its religious roots to the legends of St. Patrick, this article provides an engaging look into how this festive day became a global celebration of heritage and community.


 
 
 

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