Without the actions of pioneering activists Marsha P Johnson, a black drag queen, and Slyvia Rivera, a transgender woman, LGBTQIA+ liberation may have progressed at a snail's pace. READ MORE: Ways you can be an ally this LGBT+ History month The weekend of rioting, which saw queer communities stand their ground and fight back against the regular police raids on the city’s gay bars and clubs for the first time, is now recognised as being the catalyst for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people.
These celebrations mark the anniversary of the Stonewall riots - a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the community in response to a police raid that began in the early hours of June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. Every year, throughout June, Pride Month is celebrated.įor 30 days straight - pun intended - members of the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies celebrate everything from their identities, friendships, relationships and accomplishments.
