The inclusivity of a society can often be gauged by the way it treats its minority communities. The more tolerant a society, the more empowered and protected are the rights of inter-communities. In the USA, as in many other countries, the evolution of Pride Month events over the years is a strong indication of the increasing social acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.
Several decades ago, Pride Month events were pioneered by brave souls who paraded with an air of revolt, frequently facing verbal abuse and sometimes physical assaults. The Stonewall demonstrations, which saw a lot of violence, are commonly acknowledged as the most important event which laid the foundation of the gay liberation movement and the twentieth century fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the USA. Undaunted, the community carried on over the years. Undeniably, the events of those days, were courageous social rebellions, where there were rare opportunities to assert one’s identity in a regressive mindset society.
Over the years, LGBTQ+ organizations worked tirelessly and surely inclusivity began to grow in USA and around the world. Several popular celebrities openly ‘came out’ which aided in changing the mindset of people. One of the unjust social stigmas that the LGBTQ+ community struggled with was the association with AIDS. Gay men around the world were dying in isolation and treated as if they deserved this disease soley because of their sexuality. It took many years, but the LGBT+ community successfully raised awareness for AIDS. This is indeed a testament to the courage of the LGBTQ+ community.
Fast forward to 2021, and the LGBTQ+ community has a joyful air of celebration while continuing to fight for equal rights around the globe. The participants of Pride Month events are happy, cheerful, and carry themselves with true ‘pride’ during the fun festivities we have come to know and love. Social media, the instant societal barometer of our day, is flooded with trending hashtags supporting participants. This is a reflection of the significant change that has happened over the years.
In our times, mainstream media, especially TV shows are an undeniable gauge of the presentation and acceptance of an issue. Shows featuring LGBTQ+ themes, actors, and characters have become very accepted, popular, and ‘mainstream’. What a change since the days of the Stonewall Riots!
Around the world there is still a way to go for true equality, but change is happening. It is up to all of us to be accepting and to aid in the fight against LGBTQ+ discrimination.
@Eventcombo, we join with joyfulness the celebrations of the LGBTQ+ communities with the firm belief, that with our combined efforts the world will become more inclusive and accepting.
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