Pride flags at Christopher Park, Stonewall National Monument, New York City
© Noam Galai/Getty Images
Pride 2024 - The pride of New York City
Fifty-five years ago today, an act of resistance marked a turning point in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. In the early hours of June 28, 1969, New York City Police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village. At the time, homosexuality was illegal, and such raids were common. However, that night, the patrons of the Stonewall Inn, fed up with the continued harassment, stood their ground. Violence escalated, leading to clashes between protesters and police. In the following days, there was more rioting as people gathered to protest the raids.
On June 28 the following year, gay pride marches were held in New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago to mark the anniversary of the riots. Similar marches began to be held annually across the US and the rest of the world. June 28 is now celebrated as International LGBTQIA+ Pride Day. In 2016, the Stonewall Inn, Christopher Park, and nearby streets were officially dedicated as the Stonewall National Monument. So, today is the perfect time to remember those who have fought for LGBTQIA+ rights before, during, and after Stonewall.