First, did you know that LGBTQ is now LGBTQIAP+? LGBTQIAP+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual/aromantic/agender/ally, and pansexual. The “+” acknowledges that there are other non-cisgender and non-heterosexual identities that are not included in the acronym. Cisgender is denoting or relating to a person whose sense of personal identity and gender corresponds with their birth sex.
Why is Pride Month in June?
Pride Month is one of the most emblematic and visibly diverse celebrations of the year! It is celebrated in June to commemorate the Stonewall riots of June 28, 1969, which are commonly considered a watershed moment in LGBTQIAP+ history and civil rights. The Stonewall Inn is a gay bar, restaurant, and nightclub (overall fun place) in New York City and is considered to this day to be a haven for LGBTQIAP+ individuals. In the 60s, the Stonewall was regularly raided by the police because the LGBTQIAP+ community was seen as immoral and illegal. These raids would often lead to arrests and hospitalizations of LGBTQIAP+ people. On June 28th, one of these raids took an unexpected turn, and the Stonewall patrons decided to fight back in a big way. They rallied themselves and hundreds of other protesters from nearby bars and neighborhoods to stand against the raids. The protesters returned every night for six nights bringing gay rights and anti-gay systems to the forefront of American cultural conversations and initiated the call for change.
Excited about Pride Month? Want to celebrate or get involved?
In Roanoke
Strike a Pose Mini Ball
LGBTQIA+Pride Mini Ball Deluxe Celebration 2022 hosted by Monet Ebony and Father GG Expressions. Avant Garde Entertainment. There is a full bar and food for purchase. All bar proceeds go to support the Roanoke Diversity Center.
When: Saturday, June 11, 2022, from 7pm to midnight
Where: Penthouse at Center in the Square
Cost: $25 to $250
Sunday Tea Dance-Pride 2022
What: Sunday Tea Dance to celebrate Pride with a DJ from Quest Entertainment and MC Father G.G. Expressions.
Where: Twisted Track Brewpub
When: Sunday, June 26. 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
How Much: Cover charge donation of $10/person (Tickets at the Door)
Who: Everyone is invited! Dress up, come in drag or wear all rainbow, just have fun with it!
Hope to see you all there!
The Roanoke Diversity Center serves as a catalyst for change by inspiring and supporting LGBTQIAP+ people. They offer counseling, a SWVA community Guide, and have events year round. To volunteer with them, go to: https://www.roanokediversitycenter.com/volunteer
Don’t feel like going out into the world quite yet? Celebrate PRIDE by reading a book, watching a movie, listening to a podcast or checking out a new TV Series. Here are a few to check out (don’t worry, I’ll add more each week):
Books
The Stonewall Reader anthology
Black on Both Sides by C. Riley Snorton
Tasty Pride cookbook
Movies
Podcasts
Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox
TV Series
Have a diversity idea? Don’t hesitate to email VWCC Chief Diversity Officer, Dr. Jolene Hamm, at jhamm@virginiawestern.edu