Celebrating Pride

Jun 05, 2024

Pride Month takes place throughout June annually to honour and celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community's history, culture, and contributions to all facets of society.

Pride’s origin traces back to the Stonewall Riots of June 1969 in New York City, a pivotal moment in the fight for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights. These demonstrations were sparked by a police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village, and marked a significant turning point in the 2SLGBTQIA+ liberation movement. The first Pride marches were held the following year, commemorating the riots and advocating for equal rights.

Pride Month provides a platform for visibility and advocacy, helping to combat the discrimination and stigma that 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals continue to experience. It also serves as a celebration of the progress made in the fight for equality, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage and anti-discrimination laws like the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.

Pride fosters a sense of community and solidarity among 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and our allies, creating a space for everyone to express their identities freely and authentically.

There are many ways people can show support during Pride Month.

Attending local Pride events is a visible and social way to get involved. These public celebrations often include marches, markets, talks and performances that celebrate 2SLGBTQIA+ arts, culture and achievements.

Volunteering with 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations is another practical way to contribute during Pride and throughout the year, whether in a direct service role, fundraising, education and advocacy, or event planning.

Educating ourselves and others about 2SLGBTQIA+ history and issues is also crucial. This could mean attending public talks, reading books, watching documentaries, listening to podcasts or participating in workshops and discussions.

Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ businesses and artists helps to uplift the community economically and culturally year-round.

Creating inclusive spaces in your communities and workplaces is another way to recognize and act during Pride Month. This can involve advocating for inclusive policies, using inclusive language, and challenging discriminatory behaviors and practices.

Pride is a time to celebrate diversity, honor the struggles and achievements of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and continue the work towards greater equity and acceptance. By participating in Pride activities, you can show your support and contribute to the ongoing fight to advance and protect 2SLGBTQIA+ rights.

The preceding is a statement from Joseph Fraser, Director & CEO of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. 

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