Pride Month is finally here, and after last year's momentous 50th anniversary of the LGBTQ+ movement, this year promises even more fabulous celebrations.
This month-long commemoration offers a significant opportunity for members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to honor their identities, celebrate their achievements, and reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality.
But why is Pride Month observed, and when does it take place?
Pride Month is celebrated worldwide every June. This special month serves as a time to recognize and honor the profound influence that LGBTQ+ individuals have had across the globe.
The reason behind choosing June as Pride Month is rooted in history. It marks a significant event known as the Stonewall riots, which occurred as a response to a police raid on the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village, Manhattan on June 28, 1969.
The Stonewall Inn, a popular gathering place for young gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender individuals, became a focal point for resistance. During the raid, the police arrested employees for selling liquor without a license and mistreated many of the patrons, leading to a series of demonstrations by the LGBTQ+ community.
These protests demanded the establishment of safe spaces where homosexual individuals could congregate without fear of persecution or violence.
The Stonewall riots served as a catalyst for LGBTQ+ rights, sparking a movement that has continued to fight for civil rights and equality ever since.
Pride Month celebrates this legacy of struggle and progress, with events such as parties, parades, concerts, and various other celebrations of queer identity.
The 'Rainbow flag'
A symbol that has become synonymous with LGBTQ+ pride is the rainbow flag, created by artist Gilbert Baker in 1978.
Each color on the flag holds its own meaning: red symbolizes life, orange represents healing, yellow signifies sunshine, green represents nature, blue embodies harmony, and purple symbolizes spirit.
The original flag had two additional colors: hot pink symbolizing sex and turquoise representing magic and art.
Throughout the years, there have been various adaptations of the flag. In 2021, the flag was modified in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter protests, adding black to symbolize diversity, brown to represent inclusivity, and light blue and pink, the colors of the trans pride flag.
How can we actively participate and celebrate?
March! Many Pride celebrations are resuming in-person this year, so check your local guidelines and attend a Pride march. Remember, Pride began as a protest, and this year's theme is "The Fight Continues."
Get involved. Engage with LGBTQ+ advocacy by volunteering for a phone or text bank or attending virtual town halls. Make your voice heard and contribute to the ongoing fight for equality.
In the Philippines, Pride Month is also observed, reflecting the country's general tolerance towards the LGBTQ+ community.
Over the years, Filipino LGBTQ+ members have organized empowering events, creating safe spaces and promoting inclusivity. Since the inaugural Pride March in 1994, the LGBTQ+ community has continued to celebrate this event annually in June.
To showcase the pride and fight for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, two remarkable marches are taking place on June 24.
Metro Manila Pride, with its theme "Tayo ang Kulayaan! Samot-saring Lakas, Sama-sama sa Landas!" will be held in Circuit Makati. Although specific details regarding performers, march routes, and the full program are yet to be announced, this event promises to be a remarkable celebration of unity and freedom.
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Another notable event, LoveLaban, organized by Pride PH and the Quezon City Government, will take place at the Quezon City Memorial Circle from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. The festival will feature an array of performances, including renowned artists and drag queens who will captivate the audience with their talent and charisma.
These annual Pride events in the Philippines serve as powerful platforms to empower the LGBTQIA+ community, celebrate their identities, and demand recognition of their rights.
Happy Pride Month!
