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Originally posted on: https://prowlerpoppers.co.uk/when-is-pride-month-2023/
It might be cold and grey outside your window right now, but brighter things are on the horizon. In just a few short weeks, thousands of people throughout the UK will be attending Pride Month 2023 events and celebrating all things LGBTQ+. Preparing for Pride Month UK 2023 is always fun, but if this is your first time getting involved or your first time at the London parade, we bring you the essential facts and tips for how to make this your best Pride ever. The first question you might be asking is “when is Pride Month 2023?” We have you covered with the dates, the history, and how to celebrate Gay Pride with, well…gay abandon!
The History of Pride Month
Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall uprising, which occurred in June 1969. The first Gay Pride Liberation March was held in Manhattan in 1970 to mark the one-year anniversary of the uprising. However, it would take a further 30 years before Pride Month became official. Let’s take a closer look at the history.
The Stonewall Riots
In the early hours the of 28th of June 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn in New York City. Three nights of unrest and riots followed as the LGBT people started fighting back against the police brutality and prejudice they had been victims of for too long. The anniversary is a reminder to LGBTQ people and the world how important it is to stand together in defiance of those seeking to divide us.
Back in Britain, not long after the Stonewall riots took place, the British chapter of the Gay Liberation Front was founded. The first Gay Pride Rally took place in 1972 in London. The rest, as they say, is history.
The Evolution of Pride Month
What started out as a protest back in 1969 is now a celebration and symbol of hope for LGBTQ+ communities around the world. However, there is still so much work to do. While a lot of progress has been made, there are many LGBTQ people in repressive settings that still need to live and love the way they choose to under the radar. Pride will continue to grow and evolve to help communities worldwide to gain the rights they deserve and make a stand wherever necessary.
How Pride Month is Celebrated Today
Today, Pride celebrations include parades, parties, picnics, peaceful protests, concerts, workshops and so much more. LGBT events around the world attract millions of participants and everybody, gay, straight, in or out, is welcome to attend.
Memorials are also held during Pride Month to remember members of the community who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDs or hate crimes.
Celebrating Pride Month in 2023
Whether this is your first Pride or you’ve been to many events around the world, 2023 looks set to be one of the biggest Pride Months yet.
Dates for Pride 2023
Pride Month 2023 kicks off in the UK on the 1st of June and runs through to the 30th of June. It’s the biggest and most diverse celebration in the LGBTQ calendar and 2023 looks like it’s going to be off the scale.
The climax of this month-long event is, of course, the vibrant and colourful London parade. This takes place on Saturday 1st July. Take a seat in a prestigious position along the parade route or join the crowds and celebrate alongside fellow members of the LGBT community.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ Community During Pride
There are many ways you can show your support for the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month and beyond. Educate yourself.
Take time to learn about the history of LGBTQ rights. Wear pride colours. You could also volunteer at a Pride event.
Many events are run solely by volunteers and it’s one of the most fun times you can have while working.
Participating in Pride Celebrations
The month of June is crammed with Pride marches, festivals, runs, concerts, and peaceful human rights protests. Attend a drag show, gather friends to dance, and get ready to celebrate. Above all else, be safe. While the roots of Pride will never be forgotten, today’s events are about making a stand through celebration, enjoying life, and being supportive of LGBT people everywhere. Whether you choose Pride Month to come out, to become a better ally, or show off the Pride outfit you’ve been working on all winter, have FUN.
