Last Updated on July 3, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
As someone who loves to learn and believes in accepting and celebrating differences, I’ve come to understand the importance of Pride Month in ways I never expected.
Beyond the lively parades and joyful events, Pride Month is a yearly reminder of the hard-fought battles, victories, and ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
So, why is it important to celebrate Pride Month? Today, let’s explore the reasons why it’s so crucial to embrace and commemorate this empowering month of unity and self-expression.
6 Reasons Why It’s Important To Celebrate Pride Month
1. To Uplift LGBTQ+ Voices
Pride Month is a time to raise the voices of the LGBTQ+ community and support them in their struggle against discrimination.
It’s about recognizing their progress and the battles they still face, like matters of gender identity, equal rights [1], and workplace protection.
And it’s an opportunity for them to be seen and accepted and, most importantly, to be proud of who they are and the cause they’re fighting for.
2. Commemorate Historical & Cultural Events
Commemorating historical and cultural events holds profound significance in celebrating Pride Month.
This time allows us to reflect on the milestones and struggles shaping the LGBTQ+ community’s journey towards acceptance and equality.
From the defiant uprising at the Stonewall Inn to the tireless activism that followed, Pride Month reminds us of the courage and resilience displayed by LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies.
Find out how you can explain Pride Month to a kid here.
3. Supporting The LGBTQ+ Rights
Supporting LGBTQ+ rights is one of the core reasons behind celebrating Pride Month.
“Stonewall represented, absolutely, the first time that the LGBT community successfully fought back and forged an organized movement and community.”
– Mark Segal, Social Activist
It reminds us of the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and urges us to take action for equality.
Pride Month allows us to advocate for fair treatment, such as laws against discrimination, equal access to healthcare, education, and jobs, and the freedom to love and marry without restrictions.
4. Raise Awareness
Raising awareness helps us understand and empathize with the experiences and difficulties faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Pride Month allows us to learn and educate others about the various identities and orientations within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
It promotes open conversations, breaks down stereotypes, and fosters acceptance. But when did Pride Month begin in the United States?
5. Advocate For Equality
Pride Month is a powerful advocacy tool, pushing for policies and laws that protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. It gives a platform for political action and encourages societal change.
Through that advocacy, they strive to break down barriers and prejudices, fostering an environment that embraces diversity and empowers individuals to be their true selves without fear.
6. Acknowledging Progress
Celebrating Pride Month allows us to recognize and honor the remarkable progress made in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
It’s a chance to reflect on the advancements in legal protections, social acceptance, and equality achieved over the years. But how long has Pride Month occurred?
What Symbol Represents Pride Month?
The most well-known symbol of Pride Month is the rainbow flag. It’s a good way to remember how welcoming and accepting the LGBTQ+ community is.
This flag has grown over time, with different variations for different groups.
“Celebrating Pride Month is a way of honoring the brave souls who have paved the path for LGBTQ+ rights, reminding us that progress is possible, but the journey towards full acceptance and inclusivity is far from over.”
– Howkapow Gift Site
It can be seen at Pride Month events, showing the many identities that come together to form this vibrant community. But exactly what does the Pride represent?
Who Were the People Who Helped Make Pride Month a Success?
1. Marsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera
Both were pioneering transgender women at the forefront of the LGBT rights movement at the historic Stonewall revolt in New York City in 1969.
They also co-founded Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), an organization that helped homeless young drag queens [2] and trans women.
2. Brenda Howard
Howard is credited for arranging the very first LGBTQ+ Pride march and was pivotal in founding the custom of Pride Week, which later became Pride Month.
She is also frequently called the “Mother of Pride,” a nickname she earned.
3. Gilbert Baker
An artist and gay rights activist, Baker designed the original rainbow flag in 1978 at the request of Harvey Milk. His design has since become a worldwide emblem for LGBTQ+ pride.
4. Harvey Milk
Before his untimely death in 1978, Milk made a record as one of the first openly gay political figures in the United States.
His life and work helped lay the groundwork for establishing Pride Month.
Also Read: Things To Do To Celebrate Pride Month At Home
FAQs
Which flower best symbolizes the LGBTQ community?
In the 1920s, gay men were referred to as “Lavender boys” because they were seen as “not masculine enough,” and the flower lavender came to represent the LGBT+ community.
Which countries observe June as Pride Month?
June is celebrated as Pride Month in several nations worldwide, including the United States, Brazil, Berlin, Greenland, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Bottom Line
Celebrating Pride Month is significant in our journey towards a more inclusive and accepting society.
As I’ve witnessed firsthand, it’s a time to uplift LGBTQ+ voices, amplify their stories, and honor the historical and cultural milestones that have shaped the movement.
Coming together in unity and support, we stand for LGBTQ+ rights and advocate for a world where love and acceptance triumph over prejudice.
Remember the battles won, acknowledge the work ahead, and continue to celebrate Pride Month with joy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to equality for all.
References:
- https://www.americanprogress.org/article/need-know-equality-act/
- https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-drag-history-culture-guide
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