LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer including Intersex, Questioning, and Allies) Pride Month is celebrated annually in June across the U.S. to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots. The purpose of PRIDE Month is to work toward equal justice and equal opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals.
In June of 1969, patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City staged an uprising to resist police harassment and persecution. This uprising marks the beginning of a movement to outlaw discriminatory laws and practices against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Today, celebrations include PRIDE parades, picnics, parties, workshops, and other social gatherings. Collectively, PRIDE Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that LGBTQ+ individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.
PRIDE Month is an opportunity to bring greater awareness and education to the entire community about accepting others, bringing the Y’s Mission to life by moving beyond tolerance to acceptance of LGBTQ+ staff, members, and the communities we serve. Everyone deserves to learn, grow and thrive at the Y.
