What is pride month?
Pride month dates back to June 1970, where in New York City thousands of activists gathered to march on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall uprising. The Stonewall uprising sparked the movement, police raided a bar that was a safe space for the gay, lesbian and transgender community. Since 1970, 51 years have passed in which 51 annual, month-long celebrations occur. Around the world, individuals come together to allow time for members of the LGBTQ2S+ and those who are allies to celebrate! Pride month can be used as a time to educate people on the need for equality, Pride's goals remain the same as they were in 1970, to advocate, celebrate and educate.
Where can we go to educate ourselves?
As an individual of today’s society, it is important to educate yourself about the history of Pride and learn about the experiences of others in the Pride community. Thanks to the internet, there are several Pride resources to educate those wanting to learn more. Websites are listed below.
If you’re a Queen’s University student and are looking for on-campus support, the link below provides on-campus resources and services for those in need: https://www.queensu.ca/inclusive/resources/gender-and-sexuality
What is happening in Ontario this month to celebrate pride?
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there will be no in-person events to celebrate pride month. However, there will be online events and festivals. Upcoming virtual events are listed below and many more, as well as dates and times, can be found at this website: https://www.pridetoronto.com/events/month/2021-06/
June 23rd: Virtual ProPride
This is a virtual panel discussion hosted by Pride at Work Canada which will examine how we move from acknowledging diversity to affording all employees dignity in our workplaces.
June 25th: Trans Pride Rally and March
This is a space for allies of the Trans community, whether you’re Trans yourself, non-binary, friends of, or allies. This celebration will be held in a virtual space for an hour of speakers who wish to emphasize community engagement.
June 27th: Pride Parade
This annual parade of over 40 years will be held online and will be a one-hour production honouring the history of Pride in Toronto.
How can you show your support / be an ally?
Everyone can show their support by speaking up when you hear any homophobia, transphobia and anti-LGBTQ harassment and discrimination. By speaking up you teach others that it is not acceptable to treat other humans that way. Through learning about the range of sexualities on the LGBT spectrum you will be better able to identify discrimination while also educating yourself. Educating yourself will also allow for you to understand appropriate pronouns to ensure everyone feels the most like themselves and comfortable. Other ways to show your support are through showing your support when those close to you choose to come out and remember even though they came out to you does not mean they have come out to others. This is their story to share and not yours. Attending any LGBTQ2S+ events that interest you with your friends or by yourself always shows support and is often a fun activity.