The Stonewall Riots, which occurred in June 1969 in New York City, were the initial spark for the modern LGBTQ+” rights movement.
As one of the few gathering places accepting LGBTQ+ patrons at the time, the Stonewall Inn was a safe-haven. Faced with a spontaneous police raid, Stonewall patrons—many of them trans women of color—fought for their right to congregate in peace.
There has certainly been progress in the 52 years since Stonewall (marriage equality, for example), but many challenges persist, including health disparities, violence against transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, and the introduction of discriminatory legislation.
5 Ways to Take Action
In June, we remember Stonewall and commemorate Pride Month. Here are some ways you can get involved locally:
1. Join Milwaukee’s 2021 #blacklivesmatter March for Pride on Sunday, June 13th
2. Participate in the world’s largest LGBTQ+ motorcycle run, the Ride With Pride 2021, on Saturday, June 5 at 9am, starting at the House of Harley-Davidson in Milwaukee
3. While Milwaukee’s PrideFest event is postponed due to the pandemic, check out their new PrideFest Health & Wellness Directory!
4. Set up recurring donations to local LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, including The Black Rose Initiative, Diverse & Resilient, and your LGBTQ+ Community Center
5. Check out festivals throughout the summer, including Waukegan Pride on June 5, Point Pride Festival on June 12, Central Wisconsin Pride on June 19, Kenosha Pride or Dane County’s virtual Magic Pride Festival in August, and LaCrosse PRiDE in the Park in September
Elevate Your Organizing
In June and beyond, it is always the right time to organize for LGBTQ+ rights and well-being. Take your campaigns to the next level with the WiLD Project’s leadership and organizing workshops.
