7 Facts About Pride You Should Know
Pride is a chance to support and uplift our LGBTQ friends and family.
"When all Americans are treated as equal, no matter who they are or whom they love, we are all more free."--Barack Obama
Every June in the United States, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community and allies come together for a month-long celebration of love, diversity, acceptance, and unashamed self-pride.
Events and parades are held across the nation to celebrate and recognize the huge impact that LGBTQ individuals, advocates, and allies have on history in the U.S. and around the globe; and to support sexual and gender minorities’ liberation.
Did you know: Only 2 US presidents have formally acknowledged Pride month? Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. However, many businesses are committed to and support the well-being of LGBTQ community. Like Amazon, for instance – who added a skill to Alexa when asked: “Alexa, tell me a Pride fact”.
The LGBTQ Pride Flag
Gilbert Baker, an American artist, gay rights activist and U.S. Army veteran, created the rainbow flag in 1978 as a new symbol for the gay and lesbian political movement.
Did you know: The 6 colors of the LGBTQ flag each have a meaning: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sun, green for nature, blue for harmony and violet for spirit. The original flag had 8 colors (including hot pink and turquoise), but it became cheaper to produce the flags with six colors.
Why is Pride in June?
In 1969 it was still illegal for LGBTQ people to meet in public places, and bars that catered to the LGBTQ community were regularly targeted by law enforcement. On June 28th, 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn in New York City, attempting to empty the place. The LGBTQ community fought back – igniting days of riots and protests. This served as the catalyst for the gay rights movement in the US and around the world.
Did you know: Back in 1969 homosexuality was considered a mental disorder, and was “treated” with electroshock therapy or by commitment to a mental hospital.
Celebrating LGBTQ Pride Month
Cities around the world unite to celebrate sexual diversity and love equality. Celebrations include pride parades, marches, parties, concerts, workshops and symposiums across the nation. Memorials are also often held for members of the LGBTQ community who have lost their lives to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. Seattle’s own “Pride Beyond Borders” parade will take place Sunday, June 24th.
Did you know: The framework that shaped the Pride month we celebrate today all began with bisexual activist, Brenda Howard, who organized a liberation day march a month after the Stonewall Riots.
