We have all heard of LGBTQIA+ Pride Month but do you know what it really is? Pride Month originated in the United States to commemorate the Stonewall riots, which occurred at the end of June 1969. This is why Pride is celebrated during the month of June to help recognize the impact that the LGBTQIA+ people have had in the world.
There are so many people throughout the course of history that have contributed to and supported this movement. Here are just a few of many!
Audre Lorde: Black feminist and poet. Lorde was very vocal and spoke out against racism, sexism, and homophobia.
Bill Thom: Founder of Lambda Legal which provides legal assistance to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dan Savage: Launched the It Gets Better Project in 2010 with his husband. It helps prevent suicide among LGBTQIA+ youth.
James Baldwin: As a writer, he was writing about homosexuality and bisexuality way before the LGBTQIA+ movement took form.
Gilbert Baker: Designer of the rainbow flag that helped to define the LGBTQIA+ movement.
Want to celebrate this year but you don’t know how? Below is a list of various ways you can participate now and over time.
There are several ways to celebrate Pride; parades are ubiquitous and a popular option for celebrating. From New York to Singapore this is such a fun way to connect with the LGBTQIA+ community. Here is a list of all the Pride events in cities all over the world – from Colombia to Italy, Puerto Rico to Canada, there is sure to be an event near you.
Donating and volunteering not only helps others but also helps you as an individual be clear on the movement and its impact. Understanding the cause you are supporting and what it stands for is a great way to increase your knowledge. You get to meet new people, become a part of a community, and learn something new.
Be an ally, Although it seems easy it can be really hard for others. When you choose to be an ally you stand up and support the LGBTQIA+ community. If you want to learn more about being an ally click here!
Educate yourself on all things LGBTQIA+! Try to stay informed by knowing the differences between sex and gender as well as current LGBTQIA+ related news and issues. Do the research and remember it’s ok to be completely transparent and admit that you don’t know something. You can start here by learning the basics.
Shop LGBQTIA+ owned brands to help make a difference. It’s one of the easiest ways to fund LGBTQIA+ communities directly in a big way – one of the best ways to participate in Pride is to support businesses owned and operated by people in the LGBTQIA+ community!
Meet new people, support the cause and have fun.
Happy Pride month!