Exploring the vibrant celebration of the 2023 Pride Month in and around Columbus, Ohio: A guide to events and activities

Columbus Celebrates Pride Month with a Range of Events

The Stonewall Columbus Pride March

June is celebrated as Pride Month in many cities around the world, and Columbus, Ohio is no exception. In recent years, a range of events have been organized across the city to show support for the LGBTQ+ community. The most notable event is the Stonewall Columbus Pride March, which will take place this year on June 17th, starting at 10:30 a.m. at Broad and North High streets. Thousands of people are expected to march in the event, which will proceed north towards Goodale Park.

A Month-long Celebration

Several businesses, organizations, and cities around Columbus are also hosting their own Pride events throughout June. On June 2nd, the Bexley Pride Walk will take place at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Delaware Pride Festival on June 3rd at 10 a.m. The Stonewall Columbus Pride Brunch will be held on June 4th at 11 a.m. to raise funds for the organization. On June 5th, Stonewall City Hall Pride Illumination will take place at 7:30 p.m., an event that sees the city lighting up to show its support for the LGBTQ+ community. The Hilliard 3rd Annual Pride Event and Westerville Pride Festival are scheduled for June 10th at 12 p.m. and June 10th at 2 p.m. respectively.

Other Pride Events across Columbus

Other events include the Upper Arlington Pride on June 11th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival & Resource Fair on June 16th at 4 p.m. and June 17th at 11 a.m., the Grove City Pride Parade on June 24th at 9 a.m., and the Reynoldsburg Pride Celebration on June 24th from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The History and Significance of Pride Month

The origins of Pride Month go back to the Stonewall riots that happened on June 28th, 1969. On that day, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a popular hangout for the queer community in Greenwich Village, New York City, roughing up patrons and staff. This led to days of protests and riots and was a significant catalyst for the gay rights movement in the United States.

According to the Library of Congress, June officially became designated as Pride Month in 1999 when President Bill Clinton declared a formal proclamation issuing June “Gay & Lesbian Pride Month.” In 2009, President Barack Obama also issued a proclamation for Lesbian, Gay Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month, which celebrated the contributions made by LGBTQ+ Americans and acknowledged broader initiatives like the HIV pandemic.

While there are celebrations and other gatherings all year in support of the LGBTQ+ community, June is considered the official Pride Month, as it coincides with the anniversary of the Stonewall uprising. However, Pride celebrations are not just limited to June anymore and have started taking place all year round in different places.

Advice and Conclusion

Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, equality, and inclusion, and Columbus is no exception. With a range of events organized all across the city, it’s a great opportunity to show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and be a part of the celebration. While the Stonewall Columbus Pride March remains the highlight of the event schedule, there are several other events throughout June that offer unique and engaging experiences.

As the world becomes more accepting and supportive of the LGBTQ+ community, it is essential to remember that these events not only represent a celebration but also a continued fight against discrimination, violence, and inequality. By showing up and participating in Pride events, we can help amplify our voice in support of a more tolerant, inclusive, and just society.