Members of the gay community faced a serious threat of being jailed, blackmailed, institutionalized, killed, or even lobotomized for what was then labeled as a sexual perversion and/or mental disorder. Anger and frustration had built across the decades as members of the community often found themselves being singled out by systemic hatred and oppression. Raids of this kind were common at Stonewall, but uncommonly, on this night, the club goers fought back. On June 28, 1969, a club in Manhattan called the Stonewall Inn was raided by police. However, the Pride parade was not always a celebration. In 1981 Pride decamped to West Yorkshire to confront police repression. Marriage equality was afforded only two years ago, and discrimination persists, but these parades exemplify the ability to overcoming struggle and heartache, and choosing to strive toward living as boldly as the colors on the rainbow flag. Remembering the 1981 day London’s Gay Pride relocated to Huddersfield. The parade in itself is an acknowledgement of the struggles faced throughout history by members of the community, and the issues they continue to face.
The very first Pride March was held in New York City in 1970.
It has blossomed into a huge event with celebrations happening around the world. Pride parades are famous for bright colors, daring outfits, and for uplifting the LGBTQ community (and glitter - lots and lots of glitter). Get Ready to Celebrate Pride Month in June June was chosen as Pride Month as a tribute to those who were involved in the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York.
