The month of June is Pride Month. It is a time when we remember the LGBTQ+ members of our community who fought for equal rights and a time to teach about tolerance and equality.
Pride month was founded in memory of the Stonewall riots which occurred in New York in June 1969. The riots began after the Stonewall Inn in New York City was raided by police and many gay, bisexual, and transgender people were arrested as a result.
In the 1960s it was illegal to be openly part of the LGBTQ+ community and so many individuals lived in fear of being arrested. The Stonewall Inn became a safe place for many of these people to visit and socialise. After the raid on the inn many people decided that enough was enough and took to the streets to protest and march for their freedom.
Many pride events are held during this month to recognize the impact LGBTQ+ people have had in the world and to learn about the ongoing struggle that many still face.
Though the LGBTQ+ community have come far since the Stonewall riots, homophobia, biphobia and transphobia is still very common and can have devastating effects on peoples lives. Pride is a time to reflect on this, to learn and do better to support those around us.
Pride is often celebrated this month with lots of parades and marches, though with the current concerns around COVID-19 and social distancing still in place, sadly a lot of these events have been cancelled or postponed. However, many celebrations will continue however on zoom, tiktok and other social media, ensuring everyone stays connected and celebrated!
On June 27, Pride organisations around the world will come together for Global Pride 2020, a 24-hour live-streamed event featuring musical and artistic performances, speeches from activists and campaigners, and addresses by public figures.
Pride in London’s 2020 theme is #YouMeUsWe and is about celebrating everybody, no matter your identity. #YouMeUsWe asks us to reach out, understand and support one another, demanding us to be better allies within our own community. More information on this and other ways you can access support or simply join in the festivities can be found below.
Have a safe and happy pride month!
For more information on how you can support Pride 2020:
For LGBTQU support, advice and information