Seattle Pride Celebrates
Years Join the milestone and explore Pride across the state written by Ryn Pfeuffer Hey there, my fabulous queer fam and supportive allies! As Pride Month unfolds, it’s time to rally together. As some states propose bills threatening LGBTQIA+ rights, our unity is more vital than ever. Let’s fight for our rights while honoring the trailblazing lesbians and transgender women of color who paved the way. Remember, the first Pride was a riot led by LGBTQIA+ people of color against injustice. (To learn more, check out Stonewall Forever, a documentary that brings together voices from more than fifty years of LGBTQIA+ activism to explore the ongoing legacy of Stonewall.) In Seattle, our LGBTQIA+ pride has flourished over fifty years into a vibrant celebration of diversity and resilience. This year, as we mark the fiftieth anniversary of Pride Week, our theme is “Now!”—a rallying cry for recognition that transcends time. It’s a moment to reflect on our community’s unwavering resilience, from past struggles to present triumphs. As we come together, let’s support LGBTQIA+-owned businesses and reject rainbow capitalism. Instead of performative gestures, let’s donate to vital charities like The Trevor Project and Trans Lifeline and directly support queer folks’ crowdfunding campaigns. Delving into LGBTQIA+ history isn’t just about dates and facts—it’s about understanding the stories and struggles that have shaped our communities. It’s about empathy, inclusivity and celebrating the resilience of those who have paved the way for equality. Join us in exploring Seattle’s journey to acceptance with this timeline of key moments. Let’s dig into the stories together, honor the progress made and keep marching toward a future where everyone is celebrated for who they are. Note: This historical timeline sometimes includes biased language from source material reflecting past eras rather than using more appropriate language for today.
52 1889 WASHINGTON’S MAGAZINE JUNE | JULY 2024
