Pride Month, typically observed in June, celebrates and commemorates lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) pride. Its origins trace back to the Stonewall riots of 1968, a pivotal moment in the fight for gay liberation.
1968: The Stonewall Riots
The Stonewall riots, a series of gay liberation protests, took place in 1968, marking a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
June 28, 1969: The Stonewall Riots
On June 28, 1969, a police raid at the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, sparked a series of riots that lasted for several days. These riots, often attributed to activists like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, are considered the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
1981: San Francisco Pride's "International Lesbian & Gay Freedom Day Parade"
From 1981 to 1994, San Francisco Pride named its march the "International Lesbian & Gay Freedom Day Parade," potentially marking the first instance of an internationally recognized pride day.
1991: International Pride Day Commemorations
In 1991, the Serbian group Arkadija held a forum on queer activism and art in Belgrade to commemorate International Pride Day. Additionally, Nicaragua hosted its inaugural public pride festival on this day to honor the Stonewall Riots.
1994: End of San Francisco Pride's "International Lesbian & Gay Freedom Day Parade"
San Francisco Pride ceased using the title "International Lesbian & Gay Freedom Day Parade" for its march after 1994.
June 1999: President Bill Clinton Recognizes Gay and Lesbian Pride Month
In June 1999, US President Bill Clinton officially declared June as "Gay and Lesbian Pride Month" in the United States, commemorating the anniversary of the Stonewall riots.
2011: President Barack Obama Expands Pride Month Recognition
President Barack Obama expanded the official recognition of Pride Month in 2011 to encompass the entire LGBTQ+ community.
2013: Serbia's "Hate-Free Zone" Actions
Between 2013 and 2015, Serbia observed International Pride Day with "Hate-Free Zone" actions, spearheaded by organizations like GSA and Women in Black.
2015: End of Serbia's "Hate-Free Zone" Actions
Serbia concluded its annual "Hate-Free Zone" actions for International Pride Day after 2015.
2017: President Donald Trump Declines to Recognize Pride Month
President Donald Trump chose not to continue federal recognition of Pride Month in 2017.
2019: President Donald Trump Recognizes Pride Month
President Donald Trump reversed his previous stance and recognized Pride Month in a 2019 tweet, later issuing a formal Presidential Proclamation.
2020: Global Pride Month Celebrations
By 2020, Pride Month celebrations were observed globally, with most major cities hosting events in June. However, some cities adjusted their schedules to accommodate weather conditions.
2021: President Joe Biden Recognizes Pride Month
Upon assuming office in 2021, President Joe Biden recognized Pride Month and pledged to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States, despite his past Senate votes against same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+-inclusive education.