From the Beginning of Pride to Virtual Pride

Jun 26, 2020

As we know, the pandemic has certainly changed how we interact. However, it can’t take away from our celebration! Many events have been canceled to protect the community. Fret not! Gay Travel has planned a Virtual Pride in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the first Pride March.

So what’s the history of the pride parade anyway? It actually started as a march, not a parade. It was held one year after the Stonewall riots in New York City. The riots were a response to police raids at gay bars during the 1960s. These raids by police were specifically targeting any establishments “suspected” of catering to the gay community.

While gay activism was present prior to the riots, the riots were an inciting force for change. They led to the creation of multiple rights organizations.

On the anniversary of the riots, thousands marched in Central Park in what was referred to as Christopher Street Liberation Day on June 28th, 1970. This was the genesis that led to the countless parades we observe today all over the world.

Though this year’s celebrations look different, they will no less celebrate the purpose of the PRIDE PARADE. It stands for acceptance, dignity, and equality.

We have the opportunity to once again show that the LGBTQ+ community is proud of who we are and everything we have accomplished. We are ready to face any adversity head-on and show the world that this community isn’t going anywhere.

For those of you who joined us for the inaugural Virtual Pride celebration on June 28th, 2020, we thank you for showing your pride! The event ran from 11:30 AM - 4:30 PM ET on Twitter @GayTravel #VirtualPride and showcased Prides from New York to California and from Alaska to Hawaii! Please visit VirtualPride.com to sign-up for future events.