Gay Pride month commemorates the Stonewall riots which occurred at the end of June 1969. It’s a month that focuses on recognizing the impact LGBTQ people have made in the world. It is a time to celebrate their contributions. It is also a time for us to listen and learn.
Even though a lot of progress has been made in the LGBTQ community, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), recognizes that misinformation prevents real change and progress that is needed. According to GLAAD’s Accelerating Acceptance Study 2020, many Americans believe LGBTQ people have federal protections in areas in life in which they do not.
- 80% of non-LGBTQ respondents and 65% of LGBTQ respondents believe it is currently illegal to turn individuals away from a restaurant/other public place of business because they are LGBTQ.
- 87% of non-LGBTQ respondents and 75% of LGBTQ respondents believe it is currently illegal to deny renting or selling housing to someone because they are LGBTQ.
- 78% of non-LGBTQ respondents and 70% of LGBTQ respondents believe it is currently illegal to deny employment benefits (pension or health insurance coverage) to an employee’s same-sex partner.
- 59% of non-LGBTQ respondents and 50% of LGBTQ respondents believe it is currently illegal to deny transgender people the right to use the restroom that aligns with their gender identity.
Our work must continue, especially at the state level to ensure our LGBTQ family enjoys equal rights at work, home, and in the community. It must continue with our commitment to advocacy. But this month is also a time to celebrate!
Butler County will see two outstanding PRIDE events this month.
On June 5, Hamilton Pride will host a festival for the whole family. At 11 am, a Pride march will begin in Rotary Park and end at Marcum Park. Marcum Park will host food trucks, community booths and vendors beginning at Noon and continue through the day. This family friendly day will also feature a splash pad, art/craft activities, and live music. At 6 pm, a free Pride concert will start at RiversEdge with headliners The Skivvies.
Pride Middletown will host their Pride event on Friday, June 26 from 5 pm – 9 pm. The celebration will feature a downtown color crawl, DJ & vendors at Governor’s Square. There will also be a 100 meter high heel dash and continued entertainment at Harlee’s Hideout and other local bars, well into the night!
No doubt, Butler County has a strong LGBTQ community that knows how to celebrate! Please join their celebration at both events and follow each organization on Facebook.