The History of Pride Month
Understanding the history of Pride is crucial in appreciating the immense courage and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, as it is derived from a background of struggle, protests and activism.
By exploring the roots of Pride, we gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing fight for equal rights and the importance of continued advocacy and support for the LGBTQ+ community.
"I believe in my heart that one day we will win our rights. We are not wrong, the world is wrong."
- Sylvia Rivera, LGBTQ+ Activist
The Birth of Pride: Stonewall Riots
The Stonewall Riots that occurred in 1969 marked a vital moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States. Situated in New York City's Greenwich Village, the Stonewall Inn was a popular gathering spot for LGBTQ+ individuals. Following a police raid on the bar, the patrons decided to resist, resulting in several days of protests with law enforcement.
These spontaneous demonstrations not only symbolized the deep-rooted frustration with ongoing police harassment and discrimination but also served as a catalyst for LGBTQ+ activism and the rise of advocacy organizations throughout the nation. The Stonewall Riots became a turning point in the fight for equality and acceptance, leaving a long-lasting impact on the trajectory of LGBTQ+ rights.
Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, both activists, played vital roles during the Stonewall Riots. They were influential figures in the LGBTQ+ community and actively participated in the protests. Johnson and Rivera fought alongside other LGBTQ+ individuals, leading the charge against discrimination and police harassment. The tireless efforts and bravery of activists paved the way for future advancements in LGBTQ+ rights, inspiring generations to come.
The impact of the riots helped ignite a new flame of LGBTQ+ activism and paved the way for progress in the fight for equal rights. The protests at Stonewall Inn inspired the formation of advocacy organizations and a stronger sense of community belonging among LGBTQ+ individuals. These events brought the fight for equality and acceptance into the public eye, laying the foundation for significant advancements in LGBTQ+ rights and serving as a powerful symbol of resilience and allyship.
“No pride for some of us without liberation for all of us”
-Marsha P. Johnson, LGBTQ+ Activist
The History of Pride Month in the United States
The first Pride Parade in New York City: In 1970, the LGBTQ+ community in New York City organized the inaugural Pride parade, named the Christopher Street Liberation Day March, to honor the first anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. This event held immense significance as it became a milestone in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights while also serving as a visible demonstration of unity, empowerment, and resilience. The parade showcased the community's determination to fight for equality and acceptance.
1973: Declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder by the American Psychiatric Association (APA).
The AIDS crisis and the formation of ACT UP: The AIDS crisis had a profound impact on the LGBTQ+ community, leading to devastating losses and widespread fear and stigma. In the 1980s and 1990s, the devastating impact of the AIDS epidemic led to the emergence of the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP). ACT UP played a significant role in raising awareness about AIDS, demanding access to treatments, and challenging governmental policies. The crisis also fostered a sense of resilience, solidarity, and activism, encouraging LGBTQ+ individuals to fight for their rights and to support and care for one another in the face of a devastating epidemic.
1990s saw an increased visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in media and popular culture.
2000s to present saw an expansion of anti-discrimination laws and policies to protect LGBTQ+ individuals in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
2000s to present: LGBTQ+ rights gained more visibility, there has been a greater formation of LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations and support networks.
2010 to present: Uprising in the adoption of inclusive policies in educational institutions to support LGBTQ+ students.
2015: Legalization of same-sex marriage nationwide. The fight for marriage equality reached a momentous milestone when the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a groundbreaking ruling in the historic case of Obergefell v. Hodges. This landmark decision legalized same-sex marriage across the entire nation, representing a significant victory for LGBTQ+ rights. It resulted from years of unwavering activism and legal struggles dedicated to obtaining equal recognition and rights for same-sex couples.
LGBTQ+ Rights in the USA Today
Ongoing discrimination, prejudice and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Limited protections in some states leading to disparities in rights, treatment, and accessibility.
Transgender rights and equality still face significant challenges, including issues related to healthcare, legal recognition and acceptance.
Intersectional challenges including discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals who are also racial or ethnic minorities, or have disabilities or low-income.
Continued pushback and attempts to roll back LGBTQ+ rights and protections in different political and legislative circumstances.
The History of Pride Month in Canada
1969: Canada decriminalized same-sex sexual activity, creating a significant step forward in LGBTQ+ rights.
1996: In the Canadian Human Rights Act, changes were made to provide protection against discriminatory acts based on sexual orientation.
2003: Ontario and British Columbia became the first two Canadian provinces to legalize same-sex marriage, which also paved the way for legalization across the entire country in 2005.
2017: The Canadian government acknowledged the historical injustices inflicted upon the LGBTQ+ community and proactively sought to address these wrongs. They apologized and committed to amending the situation by eliminating criminal records in regard to consensual same-sex activity.
The History of Pride Month in Mexico
2003: Mexico City became the first jurisdiction in Mexico to legalize same-sex civil unions.
2009: Becoming the first jurisdiction in Latin America, Mexico City legalized same-sex marriage.
2015: The Mexican Supreme Court declared that same-sex marriage bans are unconstitutional, making same-sex marriage legal nationwide.
The History of Pride Month in Europe
History of Pride Month in Germany
1897: Magnus Hirschfeld established the Scientific-Humanitarian Committee, one of the first LGBTQ+ rights organizations in the world.
1980: Germany became the first country to legalize transgender rights by passing the "Transsexual Act."
2001: Germany introduced registered partnerships for same-sex couples, granting legal recognition and acknowledgement.
2017: Same-sex marriage is legalized in Germany, allowing LGBTQ+ couples to marry and adopt children.
History of Pride Month in the Netherlands
1985: the Netherlands was one of the first European countries to adopt legislation which allowed transgender people to change their registered gender.
2000: The Netherlands legalized same-sex marriage, making it the first country in the world to do so.
2014: The Netherlands introduced the Gender Recognition Act, simplifying the legal gender recognition process for transgender individuals.
History of Pride Month in the United Kingdom
2004: The Civil Partnership Act was passed, granting legal recognition to same-sex relationships.
2010: The Equality Act was introduced, prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
2013: Same-sex marriage was legalized in England, Wales and Scotland.
2020: Northern Ireland legalized same-sex marriage and updated their transgender rights laws.
The History of Pride Month in South America
Argentina's Same-Sex Marriage (2010): Argentina made history in 2010 as the first South American country to legalize same-sex marriage. This allowed LGBTQ+ couples equal marriage rights, including the ability to adopt children.
Chilean Anti-Discrimination Law (2012): Chile introduced a progressive anti-discrimination law that specifically helped to protect individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. This legislation was enacted to combat discrimination and promote equal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Brazilian Transgender Rights (2018): The Brazilian Supreme Court recognized gender identity as a fundamental right, which granted transgender individuals to change their legal gender without the need for surgery or legal authorization.
Colombian Marriage Equality (2016): Colombia's Constitutional Court legalized same-sex marriage, allowing LGBTQ+ couples the same marriage rights and protections as heterosexual couples.
The History of Pride Month in Asia
History of Pride in Australia
2004: The introduction of the Registered Relationships Act allowed same-sex couples to register their relationships and receive legal recognition and benefits. However, this notion is currently not registerable in the Northern Territory or Western Australia.
2013: The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) legalized same-sex marriage in 2013, but the law was later overturned.
2017: A national survey was put out on same-sex marriage, with a majority of Australians in favour of legalization. Due to this, the Australian parliament passed the Marriage Amendment Act, which legalized same-sex marriage.
History of Pride in Japan
Local governments, such as Shibuya and Setagaya wards in Tokyo, introduced partnership certificates recognizing same-sex relationships.
The Sapporo District Court ruled that the ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, though the ruling was later overturned.
While same-sex marriage is not legally recognized nationwide, public attitudes are gradually shifting, and there is growing support for LGBTQ+ rights with the help of local activists and LGBTQ+ social media influencers.
History of Pride in India
LGBTQ+ activists and organizations in India have fought long and hard to repeal Section 377, a provision in the Indian Penal Code that criminalized consensual same-sex sexual activities and forced homosexuality to be illegal in India.
In a historic ruling in 2018, the Supreme Court of India ruled that Section 377 is unconstitutional, allowing same-sex activity.
Through activists and organizations, there has been a growing push for transgender rights and gender identity recognition.
The History of Pride Month in Africa & Middle East
Triumphs for LGBTQ+ Community:
South Africa was the first country in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation constitutionally and legalized same-sex marriage in 2006.
Activism and Visibility: Despite the challenges, LGBTQ+ activists and organizations have been working tirelessly to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and advocate for legal reforms.
Legal Progress: Some countries have made small steps towards LGBTQ+ rights, such as decriminalizing same-sex activity or legalizing same-sex marriage.
Resilience: LGBTQ+ individuals show incredible strength in navigating oppressive environments, finding support networks, and living authentic lives despite the challenges they face.
Challenges for LGBTQ+ Community:
Violence and Hate Crimes: LGBTQ+ individuals often face violence, harassment, and hate crimes, both from individuals and sometimes sanctioned by the state.
Social Stigma and Discrimination: There are prejudices from society and a stigma against LGBTQ+ individuals that has led to isolation, exclusion, and discrimination in families, education, employment, and healthcare.
Limited Activism and Advocacy Space: Activism and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights can be challenging due to restrictive laws, societal opposition, and limited freedom of expression and assembly.
Looking for ideas on food, music, activities and more for the office during Pride Month?
Check out How to Celebrate Pride at Work
Pride Events Across the World
New York City, United States: The New York Pride March is consistently North America's biggest pride event, with over 2 million attendees annually.
San Francisco, United States: San Francisco Pride is famous for its vibrant parade and festivities in the historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood of Castro.
Toronto, Canada: Toronto Pride, also known as Pride Toronto, hosts a massive Pride Parade and a month-long celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and rights every year.
São Paulo, Brazil: The São Paulo Gay Pride Parade is considered one of the largest and most significant pride events globally. Since 2006, the São Paulo Pride Parade has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest Pride parade globally, with an astounding 2.5 million participants.
Cape Town hosts the annual Cape Town Pride, one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Africa, promoting visibility, openness and fairness.
Berlin, Germany: Berlin Pride (also known as Christopher Street Day) is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Europe, featuring a vibrant parade and various cultural and political events and activities.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam Pride, known as "Canal Parade," takes place on the city's iconic canals, attracting thousands of spectators. The observance is known for its colorful and inclusive celebrations.
London, United Kingdom: London Pride is a major event that includes a lively parade through the city, along with various cultural festivities, performances, and community gatherings.
Madrid, Spain: Madrid Pride (or Orgullo Madrid) is one of the world's largest Pride events, attracting millions of visitors. It features a lively parade, concerts, and street parties throughout the city.
Paris, France: Paris Pride, also known as Marche des Fiertés, showcases a grand parade moving through the heart of the city, accompanied by music, dance, and joyful celebrations.
Stockholm, Sweden: Stockholm Pride, held in the capital city, is a week-long celebration filled with colorful parades, live performances, and cultural events that promote LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.
Athens, Greece: Athens Pride celebrates diversity and promotes LGBTQ+ rights through a parade and a series of cultural events, aiming to create a more inclusive and accepting society.
Taiwan: Taipei Pride has become one of the largest Pride events in Asia, attracting thousands of participants each year.
Australia: Sydney's Mardi Gras is an internationally known LGBTQ+ event featuring a parade and a month-long festival.
Japan: Tokyo Rainbow Pride has grown in size and visibility, working towards LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.
The Philippines: Manila Pride has gained attraction as an annual LGBTQ+ event, bringing together communities and providing education. This has helped the Philippines advance in anti-discrimination measures and transgender rights.
Since 1998, Tel Aviv, Israel has hosted one of the largest Pride parades in the Middle East, attracting both local and international attendees, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and celebrating diversity and inclusion.
Beirut, Lebanon, hosts the Beirut Pride, an annual event since 2017 that includes a series of family activities and events, discussions, and parties celebrating diversity and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.
Interesting Facts about Pride
The AIDS Memorial Quilt is a powerful symbol of remembrance and activism. It is a massive quilt made up of individual panels, each representing a person who lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses and is displayed at Pride events around the world.
The Pink Triangle Memorial in San Francisco serves as a reminder of the persecution and suffering faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during the Holocaust.
Inclusive flags, such as the Progress Pride flag and the Transgender Pride flag, have been introduced to represent and recognize the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community.
Audre Lorde, a renowned writer and activist, not only addressed issues of race, gender, and sexuality but also advocated for intersectionality and the empowerment of historically marginalized communities.
Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, fought for LGBTQ+ rights and equality until his assassination in 1978. He remains an icon for his advocacy and political achievements.
The original Pride flag, created by Gilbert Baker in 1978, had eight colors, each representing a different aspect of LGBTQ+ life. Over time, the flag has evolved to its current six-stripe design, with each color holding its meaning, such as red for life and orange for healing.
The Philadelphia Pride flag, featuring black and brown stripes, was designed in 2017 to highlight the importance of inclusivity and visibility for LGBTQ+ people of color.
