In 1969, Canada decriminalized homosexuality, simultaneously in 1969 the Stonewall Riots took place at the Stonewall Inn in New York, which began the international fight for LGBTQ2+ rights around the world. From now until Pride Weekend in June, Pride Toronto are commemorating the Stonewall Riots as the beginning of the LGBTQ2+ community’s fight for complete acceptance. Every month, the organization will be celebrating the Pride Flag and the meaning of each colour contained within it. This month’s theme was LIFE.

In the early hours of June 28, 1969, New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club located in Greenwich Village in New York City. The raid sparked a riot among bar patrons and neighbourhood residents as police roughly hauled employees and patrons out of the bar, leading to six-days of protests and violent clashes with law enforcement outside the bar on Christopher Street, in neighbouring streets and in nearby Christopher Park.

Led by prominent activists Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, who were trans women of colour, the riots sparked an entire civil rights movement in the United States and around the world. This is also the reason why we celebrate Pride Month in June! READ MORE HERE.

Would you like to get involved with one of North America’s largest LGBTQ+ festival?

Programs are unique and vital to fulfilling Pride Toronto’s mission, vision and values.  Whether you are a local business looking to get more involved in the community, or an individual looking to volunteer your time, gain experience through an internship or explore career opportunities, there’s something for everyone below.

For more information, head over to their website!

Stay tuned on Instagram to find out what next month’s theme will be, and don’t forget to TAG your Instagram posts with #PrideTO and @PrideToronto for your chance to get featured in the weekly  SHOW US YOUR PRIDE  spotlights! 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.