In the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, the New York Police Department arrived at the Stonewall Inn- but no one knew they were coming. Police made frequent raids of LGBTQ bars, but would often tip off the owners in advance, requiring hush money in exchange for the community’s continued safety. Many of these bars were operated by Mafia families, taking advantage of the community’s desperate situation to make money.
![when is gay pride in columbus ohio when is gay pride in columbus ohio](https://columbuspride.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/ENTERTAINMENT-POSTER-REV.png)
Like most LGBTQ friendly bars at the time, the Stonewall Inn did not have a liquor license. At a time when known homosexual acts were a crime, the bar was a place where LGBTQ people could go and feel safe being themselves. In 1969, the Stonewall Inn was a refuge for all members of the LGBTQ community in New York City. This year, 2019, is particularly significant as it marks 50 years since the pivotal moment at Stonewall. Why exactly are Pride events held in the month of June every year? If you attend a Pride event this summer, you may see signs, t-shirts, or banners reminding you that “the first pride was a riot.” Pride events are meant to mark the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots of June 1969. If you wanted, you could attend a Pride event each weekend of June, without even leaving the state of Ohio! This month, Ohio will see at least 12 Pride events, with 3 more following in August.
![when is gay pride in columbus ohio when is gay pride in columbus ohio](https://www.gannett-cdn.com/presto/2021/06/05/PCIN/13463ea1-6728-478f-ae19-97d636acc50d-20210605_HAMILTON_PRIDE_Selects-08.jpg)
![when is gay pride in columbus ohio when is gay pride in columbus ohio](https://alumnigroups.osu.edu/scarletandgay/wp-content/uploads/sites/89/2015/05/Pride2015.png)
Happy Pride month, blog readers! Each year, during the month of June, LGBTQ communities around the country come together on a large scale to honor where they have been, celebrate who they are, and continue to advocate for a better future. 50 Years Since Stonewall: The Origins of PrideĪuthors Note: This post was originally published in June 2019.