Pride Month, celebrated annually since 1970, commemorates the Stonewall Inn Riots of 1969, a pivotal event in LGBTQ+ history. Today, some members of the LGBTQ+ community express concern over perceived threats to their civil rights from executive orders by the Trump administration and opposition to same-sex marriage by certain religious groups.
Northwestern University professors are available to discuss the significance of Pride Month and contributions from LGBTQ+ individuals. Jillana Enteen, an expert in gender and sexuality studies, highlights the impact of LGBTQ+ people on society: “LGBTQ people are valuable parts of your community whose individual and collective efforts have helped make life better for everyone... Yet our right to exist in public, free from violence, is currently under threat.”
Nick Davis, who specializes in film and literature, emphasizes the importance of Pride Month as a symbol for the community: “It’s vital to remember and to celebrate the endurance and limitless achievements of LGBTQ+ people... it is not hyperbole to say that Pride has saved lives.”
Kara Ingelhart discusses the role of courts in protecting marginalized communities: “The role of the courts is essential in maintaining the rule of law and safeguarding the rights of the politically marginalized... The courts must hold firm as a check in the balance of powers.”
Héctor Carrillo points out Pride's role as both celebration and commemoration: “Pride plays an important role for LGBTQ people... it is a celebration and commemoration of the hard work of the LGBTQ movement.” Steven Epstein underscores that diversity should not be feared: “But the true lessons of Pride are that difference is not something to fear.”
These experts highlight ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals while celebrating their historical contributions.