What Does Pride Month Mean to Me?

What Does Pride Month Mean to Me?

Written by Sarah Gewirtz, Student Engagement Librarian

Pride Month is observed every June as a celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community and a recognition of its history, achievements, and ongoing fight for equality. The first Pride marches were held in 1970, one year after the uprising at the Stonewall Inn in New York City, which became a catalyst for the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement.

To me, Pride Month is about celebrating the individuals and events that have helped move the LGBTQIA+ community forward. It is also an opportunity to learn about the many people whose contributions have shaped our world, often while facing discrimination because of who they were.

Alan Turing, the British mathematician who helped crack the Enigma code during World War II, played a significant role in the Allied victory.

Josephine Baker was a singer, dancer, activist, and spy during World War II. She used her fame and influence to support the fight against fascism while also challenging racial and social barriers.

Bayard Rustin was an openly gay Black civil rights leader who fought for both racial justice and LGBTQIA+ rights. Despite his significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, he often worked behind the scenes because of prejudice against his sexual orientation.

Author Gore Vidal challenged many social norms of his time. His novel The City and the Pillar was one of the first major American novels to portray a same-sex relationship openly.

Transgender activists Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson dedicated their lives to advocating for transgender people and other marginalized members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Together, they co-founded Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), an organization that supported homeless LGBTQIA+ youth.

Harvey Milk became one of the first openly gay elected officials in California and inspired countless people to become involved in public service and advocacy.

Musician Jackie Shane broke social and cultural barriers by living authentically at a time when doing so came with significant risks. Her music and legacy continue to inspire people today.

Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, also became an important LGBTQIA+ figure whose accomplishments demonstrated the value of representation in every field.

As a librarian, I am fortunate to work in a place that strives to provide safe spaces and opportunities for all students, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to bring speakers to campus and host events that help our community learn, grow, and feel welcome. This is something I am proud of.

When students see themselves reflected in books, programs, and conversations, they know they belong. Pride Month is a reminder that everyone deserves that sense of belonging. It is a time to celebrate progress, recognize those who paved the way, and continue creating communities where all people are respected for who they are.

I invite you to stop by the library this month to learn more about LGBTQIA+ pioneers and their lasting impact on our world.