Celebrating Pride: The History, Progression, and Obstacles of the LGBTQIA+ Community

June is Pride Month, a time when the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies celebrate diversity and inclusivity. During this month, people all over the world come together to support and uplift their LGBTQIA+ loved ones, friends, colleagues, and neighbours. But what is Pride Month? Why is it so important? And why do we still have a long way to go in terms of acceptance and equality? In this blog post, we’ll answer these questions and share some tips on how you can be a better ally to the LGBTQIA+ community.

First, let’s talk about the history of Pride Month. The origins of Pride can be traced back to the Stonewall riots in June 1969. At the time, police raids on LGBTQIA+ establishments were common in New York City. But on the night of June 28th, the patrons of the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar, fought back against the police. The uprising continued for six days and sparked a movement for LGBTQIA+ rights.

 The first Pride march took place in New York City on June 28th, 1970, to commemorate the first anniversary of the Stonewall riots. Since then, Pride has become a global celebration of LGBTQIA+ identity, culture, and activism. It’s a time when people can come together to show their support and fight for equal rights and protections for all community members. Despite our progress over the past few decades, LGBTQIA+ rights are still under attack. In some countries, homosexuality is punishable by death. In others, LGBTQIA+ people face discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, healthcare, and education. Transgender people, particularly those of colour, are at a higher risk of violence and murder than any other group.

 Allies have a responsibility to stand up against discrimination and promote equality. Here are a few ways you can get involved and be a better ally to the LGBTQIA+ community: Educate yourself with the help of reputable sources like this document from the Library of Congress. Read books, shop queer-friendly, watch documentaries, and learn about the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people. This will help you understand the challenges they face and how you can support them. Speak up. If you hear someone make a homophobic or transphobic comment, don’t let it go unchallenged. Confronting these behaviours can help change attitudes and create a safer, more accepting environment. Use your privileges. As an ally, you may have privileges that the LGBTQIA+ community does not. Use your voice and your platform to advocate for those who are marginalized. Donate. Many LGBTQIA+ organizations rely on donations to continue their work. If you’re able to, consider donating to a local or national LGBTQIA+ group. Celebrate diversity. Embrace and celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. Recognise and uplift the voices and experiences of those who are often marginalized within the community, such as people of colour, transgender people, and those with disabilities.

Pride Month is an important time to celebrate the progress we’ve made while acknowledging the obstacles we still face. As allies, it’s our responsibility to support the LGBTQIA+ community, fight for their rights, and promote equality. Let’s use this month to educate ourselves, speak up, use our privilege, donate, and celebrate diversity. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels safe, supported, and accepted for who they are. Happy Pride!