Pride Month 2021

President Biden kicked off Pride Month with a proclamation on the celebration. He touched on the history of the movement, what still needs to be done, and his administration's stance on protecting equality for the LGBTQ+ community. He states that "we recognize the resilience and determination of the many individuals who are fighting to live freely and authentically." In his proclamation President Biden:

 "calls upon the people of the United States to recognize the achievements of the LGBTQ+ community, to celebrate the great diversity of the American people, and to wave their flags of pride high."

Every June, this month is taken to reflect and celebrate anybody who identifies as LGBTQ+, as well as educating on and acknowledging the difficulties this community has and continues to face. 

History of Pride Month

    The reason for Pride month being in June goes back to 1969. On June 28, 1969, the beginning of the Stonewall Uprising,"a series of events between police and LGBTQ+ protesters which stretched over six days," began. It was marked as an event that would change the discussion surrounding LGBTQ+ activism. Stonewall was a famous gay bar in New York City. Stonewall was continuously raided before the big Uprising. While some call this situation a "riot", the STONEWALL Veterans' Association states "it was never a 'riot'" and refer to it as a rebellion. 

The first pride march was held on June 28, 1970. Pride marches have since been a staple of this month long celebration. Below is footage from the Library of Congress of the first pride march.There have also been multiple acts of legislation that have effected the LGBTQ+ community. In 1973, the Equality Act of the 93rd Congress prohibits discrimination on account of sexual orientation in a variety of sectors. Under the Obama administration, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the right to marry is "fundamentally guaranteed to same-sex couples." President Obama, afterwards, remarked that "This decision affirms what millions of Americans already believe in their hearts: When all Americans are treated as equal we are all more free."

Celebrations Now

    The Pride celebrations will continue on for the entire month. Marches, parades, shows, and so much more are just a glimpse of what this month holds to continue protecting, honoring, and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community now and in the future. 

Extra Resources

LGBTQ+ Studies: A Resource Guide

The Library of Congress offers multiple resources about the LGBTQ+ community in America.

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

National Archives holds records from the U.S. government of issues of "sexual identity and rights."

LGBTQ+ Census Data

The U.S. Census holds data on LGBTQ+ individuals in the country.