The colors of the rainbow shine in many countries this month, but what exactly is being celebrated? The whole month is Pride Month. Tolerance. Acceptance. Equal rights. The natural attitudes and rights that supporters of the LGBTQ+ community have to fight for every day. Injustice and intolerance are often part of everyday life for this colorful community. But what are the origins of Pride Month and why is it celebrated in June of all months?
The origins of Pride Month can be found in June 1969 in New York City. At that time, homosexual and transsexual people were defined as mentally ill and locked away in prisons and penitentiaries for their "fornication". As a result, most people in the LGBTQ+ community sought refuge on Christopher Street, where a so-called "gay bar" was located. On June 28, 1969, the police once again conducted a raid. While most raids were carried out relatively early in the evening and usually took place without violence, the police encountered vehement resistance from the LGBTQ+ community on June 28, 1996. But these riots were just the beginning of a series of demonstrations and protests. From then on, a modern LGBTQ+ movement was to be initiated, demanding equal rights, tolerance and acceptance. Eventually, these protests and demonstrations evolved into diverse and colorful parades that are widely known to most today. Although Pride Month has become increasingly important in recent years, we as a society are still a long way from the ideal. In recent years, there has also been an increase in crimes and significant injustice against members of the LGBTQ+ community. Exclusion and intolerance are ever-present. The world is still a long way from the acceptance and understanding that should be due to all people. For this reason, it is of utmost importance for NovaNox® to strengthen the positive resonance of the movement.
The deliberate naming of Pride Month can be traced back to the fact that supporters of the LGBTQ+ community have been forced to hide themselves and their identities and conceal their true nature for far too long. Pride Month stands for pride in being who you feel comfortable with, living freely and accepting yourself and others. Because the world is not and must not be monochrome. It is as colourful as the colors of the rainbow and individuality and originality must not be criminalized and stigmatized under any circumstances.
The entire NovaNox® team wishes the LGBTQ+ community a happy Pride Month with many unique and unforgettable moments!
