June should officially be remembered as Pride Month, both as a Filipino (Philippine Independence Day) and celebration of one’s identity. Also, forget about the names of the days of the week, because everyday should be #PrideDay (*wink)!
Pride month has a long history of activism, struggles, and battles fought for spaces and community around the world. Back to 1969, the Stonewall uprising in New York City happened. This sparked several days of conflict between the police and lesbian, gay, and transgender people weary of constant harassment that resulted to violence. It's widely cited as the inspiration for what much of the world now celebrates as Pride Month every June.
The path to freedom has always been paved by the people before us, pushing and fighting for the space and rights we all deserve.
Here's how you can celebrate #PRIDEMonth with PRIDE! 🌈
Komiket Pride
Support your favorite LGBTQIA+ creatives by buying art, stickers, merchandise, prints, and more! They got plenty at the Komiket Pride. This is happening at the Ayala Malls the 30th on June 16-18, 2023.
PRIDE PLAYS: Unica Hijas & Laro
Pride plays for the queers and their peers! Watch the twin bill production of Unica Hijas and Laro along with talks and other activities by artists from the LGBTQIA+ community. These Barefoot Theatre Collaborative plays will run on all weekends of June 10-25 at the PMC Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati. Get your ticket via bit.ly/prideplaystickets!
Tagaktak Summer Pride Mini Exhibition features the works of eight queer artists. Part of the proceeds from this exhibition will be donated to the House of the Golden Gays. The exhibit will run until June 30 at the Maria Clara Cafe in Quezon City. You can also view the full catalog here.
DIVINE FOOLISHNESS by Tokwa & JC Peñaflorida
Experience the art of sibling creatives Tokwa and JC Peñaflorida at the Super Duper Gallery located at No. 8 Eleventh Jamboree, Quezon City. Showcased in their exhibit entitled "Divine Foolishness" are tarot-inspired pieces relating to faith, queerness, and reexamination of the conflicting emotions surrounding the theme. Visit the Super Duper Gallery social media accounts for more details.
The 2023 Metro Manila Pride March: Tayo Ang Kulayaan!
Join the “TAYO ang KULAYAAN! Samot-saring Lakas, Sama-sama sa Landas!” pride march! As one of the major pride event this month, it will include a street fair, hangouts, and more to enjoy before and during the parade. This will take place on Saturday, June 24, at the Circuit Event Grounds, Makati City.
Advocate equality through the SOGIE Bill
Support the SOGIE Bill (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression Bill) and communicate with your respective congressmen by calling them out or sending them mails about your support. Let's be hopeful that our voices will be heard and let's continue to fight for inclusivity, diversity, and equal rights for all.
***
You do you! No matter who you are, where you are, you can celebrate Pride Month by just being you. Read up on queer community, understand their struggles, and what they are fighting for. Make spaces safe for the community and spread love!