Last Updated on July 23, 2024 by Kimberlee Johnson
In the vast history of America, Pride Month stands out as a pivotal time to celebrate LGBTQ+ rights and identities. This joyous and uniting event holds deep importance for many people.
By learning about history, talking to activists, and attending Pride events, I’ve seen how this month-long celebration of love, identity, and acceptance can create positive change.
So, when was pride month established in America? Today, we’ll explore the beginnings and importance of Pride Month—a time when people show who they are and make progress.
When Did Pride Month Start In The United States?
Pride month began in the United States and traced its roots to the Stonewall Riots in New York City in June 1969.
The police had raided the Inn, which was a gay bar in Greenwich Village, and those who were there fought back in response to the harassment and discrimination that they had been facing.
This event was a pivotal moment – it was the turning point for the ongoing LGBT rights movement.
As the years went on, commemorative events began to take place throughout June to honour the Stonewall Riots.
These celebrations grew and evolved, becoming what is now known as Pride Month [1], a global movement that embraces acceptance, equality, and solidarity.
What Is The Official Day To Celebrate Pride Month?
Pride Month is celebrated throughout the entire month of June. No specific day is designated as “Pride Day” that is recognized universally.
But throughout the month, people worldwide come together to commemorate and recognize the LGBT+ community.
“Our society needs to recognize the unstoppable momentum toward unequivocal civil equality for every gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender citizen of this country.”
– Zachary Quinto, American Actor
Activities such as parades, parties, workshops, concerts, and more take place during the month, depending on the local and global community.
Read: How Long Has Pride Month Been Celebrated?
Pride Flag: Who Designed It & When Was It First Made?
Who Designed The Flag?
The Pride flag, or rainbow flag, was designed in the late 1970s by San Francisco-based artist and activist Gilbert Baker.
“The establishment of Pride Month in America in 1960 marked the birth of a powerful tradition, where love triumphs over prejudice, and the LGBTQ+ community shines brightly with pride and resilience.”
– Howkapow Gift Site
He was approached by Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay politicians in America, who requested to design a symbol of pride for the LGBT community.
When Was It First Made?
The flag has symbolized LGBTQ+ pride, inclusivity, and unity since it was first created on June 25, 1978.
This colourful flag design features six stripes of different colours, each colour representing an aspect of queerness and diversity.
Find out how you can show support for Pride Month here.
What Do The Colors Of A Pride Flag Mean?
The pride flag is made up of six colours, red stands for life, urging everyone to live openly and authentically.
Orange is for healing, signifying the need to heal from past indignities and exclusion. Yellow symbolizes the power of visibility and self-expression.
Green represents the naturalness of all gender and sexuality identities. Indigo stands for harmony, celebrating the power of acceptance and peace.
Lastly, Violet speaks of strength and courage in the face of adversity. But why is it essential to celebrate Pride Month?
What Values Does Pride Represent?
The term “Pride” stands for collectivity, identity, solidarity, and the fight against discrimination.
Also, it stands for honouring self-affirmation, equality, and increased visibility for gay [1], lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals.
It’s an opportunity to advocate against hate or ignorance towards the LGBTQ+ community nonviolently and to promote embracing different sexual orientations and gender identities.
How Will You Celebrate Pride Month?
During Pride Month, people worldwide show their support for the LGBTQ+ community. It involves participating in local events such as parades, concerts, workshops, or symposia.
Connecting on social media, donating to LGBTQ+ organizations, and advocating for equality is another great way to show your support.
On a personal level, it’s important to celebrate identities openly and proudly.
Reading books, watching films, and consuming other media created by and about the LGBTQ+ community helps expand our understanding of different perspectives.
Check out these ways to celebrate Pride Month at school here.
FAQs
Where is the biggest gay pride event in the United States?
The biggest gay pride event in the United States is the New York City Pride Parade, held annually in June to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Uprising.
How many countries hold Pride festivals?
Currently, Pride festivals are held in over 107 countries, symbolizing the growing support for LGBTQ+ rights and the continued fight for equality on an international scale.
Which country has the world’s largest pride celebration?
Brazil is known to host the world’s largest pride celebration, known as São Paulo Pride.
With millions of attendees each year, this vibrant event showcases Brazil’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community. But what flower symbolizes LGBTQ?
Key Takeaways
Pride Month has a rich history dates back to its establishment in America in 1969. It emerged from the pivotal Stonewall Riots, an important turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
Over the years, Pride Month has evolved into a powerful celebration of love, acceptance, and equality.
As I’ve personally witnessed, attending Pride events allows individuals to embrace their true selves, unite with others, and advocate for change.
It’s an occasion for people to gather and work toward a more accepting and welcoming society. The event serves as a reminder of our progress and the work still ahead.
References:
- https://edition.cnn.com/2022/06/01/health/pride-month-explainer/index.html
- https://www.healthline.com/health/am-i-gay#changes-over-time
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