Ochsner PRIDE firmly supports the movement for racial equality.

June is designated as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the United States. We must reflect on the history of LGBTQ+ Pride as we stand up for racial equality and inclusion. June is designated as Pride Month to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan, beginning the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. Homosexuality was still considered a criminal offense and the police would raid LGBTQ+ spaces, such as the Stonewall Inn. After experiencing tremendous police brutality, the uprising was led by black, transgender women, such as Marsha P. Johnson, to stop this abuse. The purpose of Pride Month is to recognize the impact of the LGBTQ+ community and stand up for what is right. This purpose directly connects to the current climate as we honor the black advocates that paved the way for LGBTQ+ rights, stand up for racial equality, and celebrate living as our authentic selves.