Pride Month kicks off today and as always brands are quick to jump on the bandwagon to release rainbow hued packaging in an effort to gain a new following and demographic. Ok, that sounds a bit harsh….! It’s not always about gaining new followers! Some brands actually put effort into bringing awareness to the LGBTQ+ community by either donating or educating their consumers on what Pride Month means.
As an ally that has many friends in the community I feel the need to use my voice and platform to bring attention to Pride Month.
To understand more about Pride Month you have to start at the beginning. June 28 marks the anniversary of the Stonewall riots that happened right here in New York. The riots lasted until July 3rd and were considered one of the most important events in the gay liberation movement. Protests were held against the local government and police for displaying violence to members in the community. Did you know in the 50s and through the 60s the FBI and police departments kept lists of known homosexuals, their friends, and where they’d hang out" Did you also know the USPS tracked where homosexual material was mailed and state and local governments would not only shut down gay bars and establishments but arrest their customers and expose them in newspapers in an effort to “clean up” the neighborhood. Can you imagine living in a society where you couldn’t express your sexuality for fear you’d be exposed t...