Thoughts on Pride Month

Half a century after the Stonewall Riots in America, the world marks Pride Month to recognise the impact lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people have had on the world.

The riots were a series of demonstrations by members of the gay community against a police raid that began in the early hours of the morning on June 28 1969 at The Stonewall Inn, Greenwich Village, New York.

In a world that seems less understanding and tolerant than it has been since the 1960s, there are still rays of light which encourage us to believe that diversity, in all its forms, enhances and improves the world we live in.

The rainbows normally seen as an emblem of the LGBT community are now being seen on our windows throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Whenever we see a rainbow it reminds us of brighter times and that many colours make up our world.

Pride Month is not just about celebrating the many positive things such as legalised same sex marriage, but also about bringing current issues facing the LGBT community to the world's attention with parades, festivals and peaceful protest.

Because of Covid-19, we are not going to see the processions of people flying their rainbow flags to celebrate all form of sexual diversity. But there will be a lot on line, such as The Proud Trust's LGBT History Month*, this year dedicated to Northern Ireland journalist Lyra McKee who was murdered in 2019. You can find out more at the link below.

From my point of view, if the interests of people such as the LGBT community are addressed, then all people benefit.

It's about living in a world where people are accepted for who they are. That has to be good for everyone.