On a hot summer’s night in New York on June 28, 1969, the police raided the Stonewall Inn, in Greenwich Village, the United States. This was a catalyst to the existing discrimination and ostracization faced by LGBTQ people. The raid evolved rapidly into a protest, which triggered events to come. Enough was enough! The protestors needed a place where affirming their identity as a LGBTQ person would be without fear of arrest.
From protests to marches, to pride celebrations and now a Pride month; the Pride Month was established by President Barack Obama to commemorate the Stonewall Riots. Pride month is celebrated in June where LGBTQ+ people come together to celebrate the acceptance of sexual diversity.
Undoubtedly, Pride Month is for everyone to embrace who they are and let the world know; they sparkle for the whole world to see! It is also a celebration of the hard-fought tough-win struggles and fights for LGBTQ equality. Pride month is also a time to discuss delve upon the LGBTQ rights movement and on issues LGBTQ people face. This celebration is a great opportunity to learn about the fight for what’s right, and to pitch in as well!
Speak as one! No matter who we are, this fight should matter. Besides, when one individual’s freedoms are violated, everyone’s rights are threatened. At this time, when States discriminate against its peoples on the basis of their sexual orientation, the society is paving the path to a more oppressed world to live in.
Even today, LGBTQ issues and the fight for recognition and acceptance as a human being and to be able to live and love without any prejudice or interference from the State are much relevant. Noteworthy, LGBTQ people still faces many difficulties and are in need of legal assistance or social support. The Pride month is a moment to show solidarity and join in with the virtual celebrations all across the globe including parades, festivals, concerts.
Lakshita Kanhiya
Advocate and Manager
Young Queer Alliance
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