Why do people celebrate Pride?
Pride is a chance for LGBTQIA+ people to show they are proud of who they are – because in lots of countries it used to be illegal to be LGBT, and in some countries it still is. So by going to Pride events the community gets to celebrate that they can be who they are, and love who they love, without fear that they will be punished for doing so.
Pride is also a chance for LGBTQIA+ to take part in protests and marches to ask for equality. As well as this it is a way to honour the LGBTQIA+ people who have been murdered, or have taken their own lives, because of who they are.
Why is Pride month in June?
Pride month takes place in June to commemorate the Stonewall Riots that took place in June 1969. The Stonewall Riots began when police raided a gay bar, The Stonewall Inn. The events that took place that day then led to more protests to demand better treatment and rights for LGBTQIA+ people. The Stonewall Riots were the beginning of a movement over many decades that has lead to lots of LGBT people across the world being able to live openly and not hide who they are.
What Pride events take place in Scotland?
There are lots of different Pride events that take place! These include events exclusively for and by transgender people, free Pride events that don’t charge any money to attend, as well as the bigger events that can include musical acts, food stalls and bars, and places to shop.