In the Age of Black Lives Matter, The Pride Movement Reclaims Its Voice
May 19, 2021
After years in which annual LGBTQ Pride events have promoted a festive, celebratory atmosphere, it can be difficult to recall that the pride movement is rooted in street protests against police brutality. However, the past is always present. The energy of Black Lives Matter activism has sparked a renewal of the original LGBTQ protest spirit. That creates new challenges - and opportunities - for corporations seeking to establish an inclusive brand as a Pride Month supporter.
The convergence of LGBTQ rights and Black Lives Matter
The birth of the modern LGBTQ equality movement has been credited to Marsha P. Johnson and other Black transgender women who were instrumental in the pushback against police violence in the late 20th century, most famously during the 1969 police raid of the Stonewall bar in New York City.
NYC Pride will reduce police presence and bar officers from marching in the parade
Decision stems from discomfort that some community members have with police participation in Pride-related events.
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A police officer marches in NYC Pride’s parade in 2019 – Photo: Brian Kyed, via Unsplash.
Organizers of NYC Pride events have announced plans to ban police and other law enforcement officers from marching in the city’s annual Pride parade until at least 2025, and will reduce police presence by keeping on-duty officers at least a block away from any Pride-related events.
In a press release, NYC Pride said it was seeking to create safer spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community and communities of color at a time when police violence against marginalized groups, including Black, Latino, and trans communities, is front of mind.