Last Updated on June 29, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
For many years, Pride Month has been a special time to celebrate and support LGBTQ+ rights.
I’ve seen how it has changed, and I can tell you that this annual commemoration has come a long way. But how long has Pride Month been happening?
In this short introduction, I’ll tell you how Pride Month began, highlight its importance, and how it has influenced our society. Keep reading.
How Long Has Pride Month Been Going On?
From 1999 to 2000, United States President Bill Clinton announced that June would be a “Gay & Lesbian Pride Month.”
President Barack Obama later expanded this recognition to include the entire LGBT+ community. Since then, people have celebrated Pride Month for over two decades.
But the declaration stems from the first Gay Pride marches that were held in the United States on June 28, 1970, to commemorate the Stonewall riots of the previous year.
Therefore, Pride Month has been celebrated and recognized for over 50 years.
What Was Pride Formerly Known As?
Pride Month, previously known as “Christopher Street Liberation Day” or “Gay Pride Day,” originated after the Stonewall Riots.
The early celebrations aimed to honor the uprising and support LGBTQ+ rights [1].
As time passed, the event grew and became more inclusive, encompassing different identities within the LGBTQ+ community.
Who Started The First Pride March?
In 1969, a group of LGBTQ+ activists set out to organize the world’s first pride march. Craig Rodwell, Fred Sargeant, Ellen Broidy, and Linda Rhodes.
They spearheaded the march, which inspired the formation of similar events worldwide.
“The next time someone asks you why LGBT Pride marches exist or why Gay Pride Month is June tell them, ‘A bisexual woman named Brenda Howard thought it should be.'”
– Brenda Howard, American Activist
This powerful symbol of LGBTQ+ rights and visibility has become an annual event celebrated around the globe. But why is it essential to commemorate Pride Month?
Where & When Did Pride March Originally Begin?
The Pride March, also known as the Gay Pride Liberation March, originated in Manhattan, New York City, United States 1970.
The inaugural event, the Christopher Street Liberation Day March, took place on June 28, 1970, marking the first anniversary of the Stonewall riots [2].
And it was organized to commemorate the bravery and resilience displayed by the LGBTQ+ individuals during the riots and to advocate for equal rights and acceptance.
Find out what “Pride” represents in the LGBTQ+ community here.
Which LGBT Parade Is The Oldest & Biggest In The World?
The São Paulo Pride Parade, held in São Paulo, Brazil, is widely recognized as the oldest and largest LGBT parade in the world.
Since it started in 1997, the event has grown significantly and now draws millions of participants and viewers yearly.
Set on Avenida Paulista, a prominent street in São Paulo, the parade showcases vibrant floats, lively costumes, and joyful music.
It’s become a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community worldwide, and people travel from all over to be a part of the celebration’s rich history and welcoming atmosphere.
Also Read: What Other Special Dates To Celebrate Pride Month?
What Should You Do For LGBTQ Month?
1. Attend LGBTQ+ events
Look for local pride parades, festivals, or community gatherings during the month.
Participate in these events to support the LGBTQ+ community and connect with like-minded individuals. But how do you explain Pride Month to a child?
2. Educate yourself
Make the most of this chance to widen your knowledge about the LGBTQ+ community by studying its past, problems, and successes.
“Pride Month is a testament to the enduring strength of love and the unwavering resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, standing tall for decades and inspiring generations.”
– Howkapow Gift Site
Explore LGBTQ+ topics and viewpoints through reading, watching documentaries, or listening to podcasts. But how do you celebrate Pride Month at school?
3. Volunteer
Look for volunteer opportunities with LGBTQ+ organizations or community centers.
Offer your time and skills to support their initiatives, whether helping with events, providing mentorship, or assisting with advocacy campaigns.
4. Support LGBTQ+ charities
Consider donating to LGBTQ+-focused charities or organizations that support the community.
Your contribution can help fund programs and services that positively impact LGBTQ+ individuals.
Related Post: When Did Pride Month Start In The United States?
FAQs
When did the rainbow representing Pride begin?
On June 25, 1978, San Francisco artist Gilbert Baker was credited with designing the rainbow flag, which became the symbol of Pride for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Where in the U.S. did the first disability pride parade take place?
The first disability pride parade in the United States was held in Boston, Massachusetts.
This groundbreaking event united individuals with disabilities and their allies, celebrating their unique abilities and advocating for disability rights and inclusion.
Where is Pride Month mostly celebrated?
Pride Month is predominantly celebrated in countries worldwide, with notable events and festivities taking place in cities such as New York, São Paulo, and Madrid.
How do you observe Pride Month at work?
Observing Pride Month at work can involve various activities, such as attending a company-sponsored Pride event, supporting an LGBTQ+ business, or posting a Pride swag selfie.
Key Takeaways
Reflecting on the rich history of Pride Month, it’s incredible to see how this celebration has evolved over fifty years.
I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of Pride Month firsthand as it continues to inspire and empower individuals worldwide.
From its humble beginnings as a response to the Stonewall Riots in 1969, it has become a global movement that unites LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.
And when U.S. President Bill Clinton made Pride Month official in 1999, it further solidified the importance of Pride Month and its mission.
Thus, the significance of this annual event cannot be overstated, which serves as a timely and poignant reminder of past accomplishments and future goals.
References:
- https://www.nea.org/resource-library/what-educators-should-know-about-lgbtq-rights
- https://time.com/5598363/stonewall-beginnings-history/
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