June 23, 2022
A Statement from Brenda Victoria Castillo, President & CEO of the National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC)
During Pride Month, we celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and their resilience; however, it’s crucial to remember that the first Pride was a riot. The Stonewall Riots, which began on June 28, 1969, marked a seismic shift in Queer liberation as LGBTQIA+ people fought back against ongoing police brutality. The first Gay Pride Liberation March of 1970 took place in Manhattan to commemorate that uprising and honor the fierce advocates who refused to buckle under political pressure.
Queer people have been subjected to decades of state-sanctioned violence, premediated raids, workplace discrimination, assault, and queerphobic policies that prevent the true liberation of intersectional and diverse communities. These anti-queer sentiments have only intensified in recent years. GLAAD’s Accelerating Acceptance study found that 70% of respondents in 2022 experienced discrimination based on their identity and 56% of Gen Z Americans said they are fearful for their personal safety now more than ever, despite being the most openly Queer generation in history.
NHMC believes that the month of June should serve as a reminder of the ongoing and historic fight against anti-queer violence and as a call to action to serve, protect, uplift, amplify, and celebrate Queer communities now and always. Pride month may end on June 30th, but our work must continue. Lives depend on it.
You can celebrate Pride and support Queer communities by donating to or volunteering with one of the organizations listed below. To amplify Queer educators and activists, follow our suggested list on Instagram! Finally, to learn more about Queer history, view the short list of documentrary and educational shows available for streaming.
Yours in the Movement,
Brenda Victoria Castillo
President & CEO
National Hispanic Media Coalition
LGBTQIA+ Organizations to Support
LGBTQIA+ Educators and Activists
LGBTQIA+ Documentary/Educational Shows
