The event sparked a six-day protest that aimed to create a safe space and world for LGBTQ2S+ people to live without fear of persecution or arrest. The raid resulted in a riot and a protest from the community as a response to the discrimination and violence against them. Pride Month in North America is deeply connected to the 1969 Stonewall Riots, when police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club in New York. Pride Month grew out of a long legacy of protest and change movements in response to the violence, discrimination, and marginalization the LGBTQ2S+ community has faced. This article explores how Pride Month began and how you can celebrate. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the many facets of queer identity and for allies of the community to show their support. These celebrations are a response to the marginalization and discrimination the LGBTQ2S+ community has faced. Pride 2021 follows a long legacy of Pride events, marches, and celebrations that honour a movement for equality and acceptance for all people, regardless of their sexuality or gender identities. (LGBTQ2S+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, 2-Spirit, and additional orientations.) While it’s important to support the queer community throughout the year, June is a special time for Canadians to celebrate. June is Pride Month, and all across Canada it’s an opportunity to celebrate diversity and the LGBTQ2S+ community.
