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June is Pride Month, so we encourage all Union Wharf residents to learn more about heterosexism and trans-/homo-/bi-/pan-phobia(s) this month by getting involved in our local community. Let’s fight for inclusivity and equity for LGBTQIA+ individuals this month and every month.

The History of Pride
Pride is annually observed in June to commemorate LGBTQIA+ individuals, rights, and social justice. June also provides safe spaces/outlets/voices for LGBTQIA+ individuals and highlights current issues for the community.

Pride began with the Stonewall Uprising in NYC on June 28th, 1969. Transgender rights advocates and activists, Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, were there at the Stonewall Inn, fighting against police brutality, racism/ethnocentrism, homophobia, and transphobia. Today, we commemorate them and their accomplishments.

Pride is symbolized with the rainbow flag. The flag was designed by Gilbert Baker in 1978. In 2017, Philadelphia, however, redesigned the flag to incorporate BIPOC and their intersectional struggles with heteronormativity.

Learn more about LGBTQIA+ symbols and flags.

The Pride Center of Maryland
Happy Pride! The Pride Center of Maryland is celebrating, empowering, and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community this month. From June 12th to 20th, they’re hosting pride events—come celebrate!

If you want to get more involved, you can donate to the Pride Center this month. Contributions will benefit the community center that serves LGBTQIA+ community; funds will provide access to care, shelter, and necessities for minorities. Besides monetary donations, you can also contribute shampoo/conditioner, deodorant, toothbrush/toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, clothing/socks/undergarments/shoes, books, and furniture. Donate today and support your local community.

Virtual Pride Events
Get involved in activism and social justice via Zoom. During these events, you can learn about the history of Pride. You will also hear sociopolitical updates for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Free State Justice
Free State Justice is hosting two events on Tuesday, June 15th, and Wednesday, June 16th.

On June 15th, Free State Justice will emphasize the “Strengths of the LGBTQIA+ community,” as well as Pride and story-telling. The planned talk will promote social justice and activism. It will be held via Zoom from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

On June 16th, Free State Justice will hold a virtual workshop on transphobia and custody at 6:00 p.m. Then, the public can attend a talk on updates regarding the Affordable Care Act and sexual health at 8:00 p.m. Both events will be held online.

Virtual Elder Pride Celebration
From 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., on Sunday, June 20th, learn the history of Pride in Baltimore. The event will be held online and you can register for this free event here.

Pride Celebrations
Observe Pride month with these great in-person Pride events.

The Manor Drag Brunch
The Manor on North Charles Street is hosting a Drag Brunch on Saturday, June 12th from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. Brooklyn Heights will be hosting the show, which starts at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $20/person and can be purchased here. Don’t forget to tip your queen! You can view The Manor’s delectable brunch menu here.

Pride Celebration with Saucy Santana and Lil Snoop
Saucy Santana and Lil Snoop are hosting a Pride Celebration on Saturday, June 19th, at the Dream Mega Lounge.

Deep Sugar Pride Tea Dance
Join Deep Sugar and Kevin Aviance at The Manor on Sunday, June 20th, from 3:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. Patrons will enjoy food, music, dancing, and everything Pride has to offer. Tickets are $30-40 and can be purchased here.

Film, Movies, and the Arts
Delve into Baltimore’s history by exploring our arts and films and uncover the importance of the LGBTQIA+ community in our culture.

Movie Showcase
TT the Artist’s stunning film, both a documentary and musical, Dark City: Beneath the Beat, will be showcased on Monday, June 14th at 7:00 p.m. Afterwards, TT the Artist will attend a public panel discussing Baltimore City. TT will emphasize the importance of the local LGBTQIA+ community on local culture, arts, movements, and Baltimore City. The event will be held online and is free to attend.

Family Movie Night
On Thursday, June 17th, the YNot Lot is hosting a free movie night at 7:00 p.m. Bring drinks, snacks, and some friends.

Baltimore Poetry Slam
On Friday, June 18th, the Black Arts District is organizing a free, virtual Poetry Slam, from 7:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Tune in on their IG page @officialblackartsdistrict, to listen and marvel at our local artists and poets. Poetry, as you know, has always enhanced social movements and call-to-actions, particularly with LGBTQIA+ rights.

Pride Meet & Greet
Mingle with individuals from our community on LGBTQIA+ rights and issues.

Moonlight on the Rooftop
Stop by for a Pride meet and greet. There, you can meet and talk with LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies on Friday, June 18th, from 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. The event will take place at the rooftop bar, Sixteen on the Park. This meet and greet is free, but it is recommended that patrons donate $10 to the Pride Center.

Pride Fashion Show
Ready to be dazzled? On Sunday, June 13th, The Pride Center and Baltimore Pride are hosting a Fashion Show at the Safari Night Club, from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Tickets may be purchased in advance for $10 here. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $15.

Please remember that LGBTQIA+ rights must be fought for and discussed in Pride month and every month. #LoveisLove.