June is Pride Month in the United States—a time to honor, reflect, and celebrate the history and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community.
The origins of Pride Month trace back to the Stonewall Uprising in June 1969, a pivotal event that ignited the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Pride also marks significant milestones, such as the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Obergefell v. Hodges on June 26, 2015, which guaranteed same-sex couples the fundamental right to marry.
In commemoration of the Stonewall Inn Uprising and to honor the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights, the first Pride parades were organized in 1970, marking the uprising’s one-year anniversary. These parades served as both a celebration and commemoration to the LGBTQ+ community while also serving to increase awareness. Since 1970, Pride events have evolved to include a wide range of activities such as parades, festivals, and rallies, while also offering individuals and allies a platform to express themselves and advocate for equal rights.
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This year, the festivities will include a Pride Festival which is a multi-day event beginning on Saturday, June 7. The Utah Pride Parade will take place on Sunday, June 8 and will extend from 10 am to 1 pm. The event will be held in downtown Salt Lake City and is free and open to the public. The Pride Parade ranks among Utah’s most significant celebrations, attracting anywhere between 100,000 and 150,000 people.
Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles, progress, and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community throughout history. It’s also a time to uplift marginalized voices, share their stories, and renew our collective commitment to equity, safety, and dignity for all. Whether through education, advocacy, allyship, or participation in Pride events, we all have a role to play in advancing inclusion and standing against hate.
The symbol of Pride is expressed in the rainbow flag, with each color representing a different area of the LGBTQ+ community. The symbolism of the flag is as follows: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and purple for spirit. The rainbow flag has become a symbol for the LGBTQ+ community and Pride Month, flying throughout streets and cities, symbolizing support and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month continues to and will always play a very important role in helping include, empower, support, and advocate for all individuals who identify within the LGBTQ+ community.
As we celebrate Pride, we honor the courage of those who fought for change and we recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive and equitable future.
