Every year, June is a time of celebration, reflection, and activism for the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies. Known around the world as Pride Month, it’s a moment to honor those who have fought for equality, recognize the diversity of identities and experiences within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, and renew our collective commitment to creating a more inclusive world. But beyond the parades and rainbow flags, Pride Month has deep roots and an ongoing relevance that should never be overlooked.
The History Behind Pride
Pride Month is observed in June to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising that began on June 28, 1969, in New York City. At that time, LGBTQIA+ individuals—especially those who were transgender, gender nonconforming, or people of color—were frequently harassed and criminalized simply for being themselves. Police raids on gay bars were common, and the Stonewall Inn was one of many such spaces.
But on that night in June, the community fought back. Led by brave figures like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, the uprising lasted for several days and ignited a national movement for LGBTQIA+ rights. The following year, activists organized the first Christopher Street Liberation Day March, which laid the foundation for what we now know as Pride parades.
Why Pride Still Matters
Pride Month is not just a celebration of identity—it is a recognition of resilience and a rallying cry for justice. For all the progress that has been made, there are still many challenges facing the LGBTQIA+ community today.
In many parts of the world, same-sex relationships are still criminalized. In the United States and other countries, transgender individuals continue to face alarming levels of violence, healthcare discrimination, and political attacks on their rights. Queer youth face elevated risks of bullying, homelessness, and suicide.
Pride is a reminder that the fight is far from over. It’s a chance to recommit ourselves to the cause of equality and to uplift those within the community who are most vulnerable.
Celebrating Identity and Diversity
Pride Month is also a time of celebration. It’s a time when LGBTQIA+ people can be visible, unapologetic, and proud of who they are. The rainbow flag, with its vivid colors, represents the diversity of the community and the beauty of living authentically.
Celebrating Pride affirms the value of all identities—lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and more. It helps people feel seen and accepted, especially those who may be struggling with their identity or experiencing rejection from their families or communities.
Pride events—from marches and festivals to panel discussions and art exhibits—create vital spaces for joy, connection, and visibility. They show that LGBTQIA+ people are not alone, and that there is a vast, supportive network out there.
The Role of Allies
Allies play a crucial role in Pride Month and beyond. Being an ally is about more than flying a rainbow flag during June. It involves listening, learning, and using your voice to support the LGBTQIA+ community. It means challenging homophobic or transphobic remarks, standing up for inclusive policies at work and school, and advocating for legal protections and equal rights.
Pride Month is a perfect time for allies to educate themselves on LGBTQIA+ issues, attend Pride events in solidarity, and amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ individuals. True allyship requires ongoing commitment, humility, and the willingness to learn from and with the community.
Businesses and Authentic Support
Over the years, more businesses have joined in celebrating Pride Month. This visibility can be powerful when done with sincerity and a long-term commitment to inclusion. However, it’s important to distinguish between performative gestures and genuine support.
Companies that truly support LGBTQIA+ communities invest in inclusive policies, equitable hiring practices, and advocacy. They donate to organizations that support queer youth, transgender healthcare, and mental health services. They celebrate Pride in June—but also show up in meaningful ways throughout the year.
Educating the Next Generation
Pride Month is also an opportunity to teach the next generation about love, diversity, and human rights. LGBTQIA+ inclusive education helps create safer schools, prevents bullying, and fosters empathy. When young people learn that it’s okay to be different—and that difference is something to be celebrated—they grow into adults who are more accepting, respectful, and compassionate.
Parents, educators, and caregivers can use this time to talk openly about LGBTQIA+ history, introduce inclusive books and media, and model acceptance in their words and actions.
Honoring the Trailblazers
Pride Month is also a time to honor the legacy of those who made this movement possible. Activists like Harvey Milk, Audre Lorde, Bayard Rustin, and Barbara Gittings risked their safety—and in some cases, their lives—for the freedoms many enjoy today.
We also honor the unnamed and unsung heroes: the drag queens, the trans women of color, the youth who marched, the artists who inspired, and the everyday people who chose to live their truth in the face of adversity. Their courage lit the way for others to follow.