If you have never been to a Pride event before, you might be wondering what to expect. For example, is there anything you need to bring with you? And what should you even wear? Is there a specific dress code, or does anything go? You might also be wondering which Pride events are the best ones to visit.
What is Pride?
June is Pride month, where communities around the world celebrate and remember the Stonewall riots of 1969. At this time, any homosexual acts were illegal in every U.S. state bar Illinois. Although gay venues did exist at the time, they were commonly raided and shut down. However, on June 27, 1969, when police raided the Stonewall Inn in New York, members of the LGBTQ community fought back, with riots continuing over the following two nights. Despite police beating some members of the crowd and using tear gas, members of the LGBTQ community continued to show up at the Stonewall Inn to protest.
The Stonewall riots marked a turning point in the gay rights movement and the following year, on June 28, 1970, the first Gay Pride parade set off from the Stonewall Inn. Since then, Gay Pride events have been held in towns and cities all over the world.
What Happens at Pride?
The foundation of any Pride event, wherever it occurs in the world, is a celebration of love, acceptance, inclusivity, and equality. The LGBTQ community comes together to celebrate how far they have come and to raise awareness of the harm that still befalls some of its members in less liberal parts of the world.
What you should know though is that Pride is not just for members of the LGBTQ community. Anyone of any identity is welcome to attend provided they are respectful of everyone else. You can expect the event to be fun and friendly with lots of dancing, cheering, and love. People who attend a Pride event often drink alcohol, but there is absolutely no pressure to do so.
Throughout the U.S., Pride events are held during the month of June. The people at OutCoast say that Florida in particular has plenty of events, such as the St Pete Pride, the largest in the state. You will also find similar events in other cities including Dunedin, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Orlando.
You will probably see people holding up signs with powerful messages as they attempt to educate others. Most Pride attendees just want to be treated as equals, and these parades give them the perfect spotlight to draw attention to the continuing fight for equal rights for the LGBTQ community.
What Should You Wear?
Most people who are attending their first Pride event will worry about what to wear and think that they need to wear specific colors. The reality though is that you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in. A Pride event is all about inclusivity and acceptance, so there is no dress code as such.
You will, however, have noticed that rainbows feature a lot at Pride events. This is because the rainbow flag has become a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community. Whatever colors you choose to wear, it is a good idea to go with an outfit that you feel comfortable in. Choose clothing that you can move freely in and shoes that will not make your feet sore.
Conclusion
Pride is a celebration of love and acceptance of the LGBTQ community. Pride events typically take place in the month of June all over the world. You can wear whatever you want to such an event, and you don’t have to be part of the LGBTQ community to attend.
