4 Reasons to Participate in the LGBT Pride

Pride = History

In 1969, it was illegal for the LGTB community to gather in any public place. Few places managed to get permits over time, like Greenwich Village in New York. As time went on, more and more rebellions took place, especially against the police force. Brenda Howard, a bisexual woman, was the first in the United States to mount an anti-law enforcement blockade at Christopher Street (New York). She then started with her compatriots and citizens in need of equality a walk for peace and LGTB rights, this walk took place in July 1969 and it became today the Gay Pride, which takes place once a year in most countries of the world!

Pride = Achievement

LGBT people claim and are proud of the events of that year 1969. That year, for the first time in history, a sitting president, Richard Nixon, uttered the words "bisexual" and "transgender” . Recently, the LGBT community in the United States celebrated the first openly bisexual governor in the country's history. The LGBT 'trend' has gradually conquered Hollywood and the French 7th art: historical magazine covers, explicit television representations of homosexual relationships, and transgender awareness.

Pride = Celebrating our sexuality and gender

Despite signs of progress, many countries are still opposed to same-sex marriage or adoption. Numerous polls have shown an increase in homophobia. Surprisingly, even those who claimed to support marriage equality also admitted to feeling uncomfortable with same-sex couples kissing or holding hands. Because of this public discomfort, it can still be dangerous for LGBT people to express affection. Hate crimes against LGBT people are still happening. The Pride walk therefore calls on LGBT people to celebrate their sexuality, to be able to define their identities, without worrying about public opinion.

Pride = A long way to go

Despite the recent historic victories of same-sex marriage, it is crucial to remember that there are still many battles to be fought to achieve full equality. When it comes to basic civil rights, LGBT people are still second-class citizens in the eyes of the law. Marriage equality in many countries is far from the final frontier for LGBT civil rights. It is only the beginning. The Pride walk is the perfect event to remind everyone of the past, while acknowledging the long road ahead.