Pride (LGBTQ culture)

Cultural phenomenon celebrating LGBTQ identity and rights

Pride in LGBTQ culture refers to the positive stance against discrimination and violence toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people. It promotes their self-affirmation, dignity, equality rights, and increased visibility as a social group. Pride, as opposed to shame and social stigma, is the predominant outlook that bolsters most LGBTQ rights movements.

History

The Stonewall Inn in New York City, a historic site of the 1969 Stonewall riots.

The modern Pride movement traces its roots to the Stonewall riots of 1969, a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the LGBTQ community in response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. These events are widely considered to be the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ rights movement.

In the aftermath of Stonewall, activists organized the first Christopher Street Liberation Day march on June 28, 1970, marking the anniversary of the riots. This event is considered the first Gay Pride march in U.S. history.

Participants in the first Christopher Street Liberation Day march in 1970.

Symbols and Celebrations

Pride events are celebrated worldwide, often in the form of parades, marches, festivals, and other events. These celebrations are typically held in June to commemorate the Stonewall riots, although some cities hold their events at different times of the year.

The rainbow flag, designed by Gilbert Baker in 1978, is a widely recognized symbol of LGBTQ pride. Each color of the flag represents a different aspect of the community: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and purple for spirit.

Global Impact

Pride events have grown to become significant cultural and political events in many countries. They serve as a platform for LGBTQ people to express their identity and advocate for equal rights. In some regions, Pride events face opposition and legal challenges, highlighting ongoing struggles for LGBTQ rights.

San Francisco Pride in 2018, one of the largest and most well-known Pride events in the world.

Notable Figures and Movements

Jack Baker and Michael McConnell, early LGBTQ rights activists.

Prominent figures in the Pride movement include activists like Harvey Milk, Marsha P. Johnson, and Sylvia Rivera. These individuals, among others, have played crucial roles in advocating for LGBTQ rights and visibility.

Organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign, GLAAD, and Stonewall have been instrumental in promoting LGBTQ rights and organizing Pride events.

Cultural Significance

Pride is not only a celebration but also a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. It encourages LGBTQ individuals to embrace their identity and fosters a sense of community and solidarity.

"Gay is Good" button, a slogan popularized by activist Frank Kameny.

Related Pages

• LGBTQ rights by country or territory
• Stonewall riots
• Rainbow flag (LGBTQ movement)
• LGBTQ social movements