Pride Month: Fighting for Equality and Celebrating Love

Are you familiar with the origins of Pride nationally and here in Tacoma? Pride Month isn’t just a big party—it’s a reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead.

Pride began in 1969 as The Stonewall Uprising, when the police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club in New York City. Six days of protests followed. Leading the charge were incredible activists like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, who were predominantly transgender women of color. Their fight ignited a spark that spread across the LGBTQ+ rights movement, inspiring others to stand up and be heard. (Learn more on the History Channel).

One year later, the LGBTQ+ community in NYC organized the “Christopher Street Liberation Day March,” which became the first Gay Pride parade. Thousands of people gathered to march, advocate for equal rights, and proudly celebrate their true selves.

Pride Month isn’t just a month—it’s a celebration of love, identity, and acceptance. So, as we come together to celebrate, let’s honor the past, acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, and work towards creating a community where everyone feels safe and celebrated for who they are.