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Voices

Why Pride's revolutionary spirit matters more now

Erynn Dana Dalton Miss Bouvee Jennifer McClain Suzie Toots and Matthew Darren on stage at Advocate Out magazine pride of broadway cover release party
Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Out.com

Erynn Dana Dalton, Miss Bouvèé, Jennifer McClain, Suzie Toots, and Matthew Darren at the "2025 Out & The Advocate Pirde Cover Party: Pride of Broadway."

Equalpride's CEO reflects on this Pride Month, reminding us that we march not only in celebration but in defiance, resilience, and remembrance of the riot that started it all.

As parades and celebrations unfold this month and beyond, Pride comes at a moment when our community faces increasing hostility and intense challenges. Across the country, we have seen a troubling rise in hostility, discrimination, and legislative attacks targeting LGBTQ+ individuals. For many, Pride may look and feel different this year, filled not only with celebration but also resilience and determination.

Many of these parades may echo the earlier ones that celebrated the moment that sparked the movement. Pride began not as a parade but as a riot with a courageous stand at Stonewall. Those initial sparks of resistance paved the way for decades of progress, achieved by no small feat through the tireless dedication of countless individuals.

The Advocate, part of equalpride’s family of brands, has itself been a witness to the birth and evolution of the modern LGBTQ+ movement. Since 1967, The Advocate has been at the forefront, documenting and shaping the emerging narratives of activism and visibility. That ethos remains with our brands today: not only by sharing stories that impact our community but also by highlighting stories that have the power to inspire and empower individuals to live openly and freely.

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Stories that are needed now more than ever, even in the face of hostility.

Our fight for justice is enduring. As we celebrate Pride this June and beyond, let us remember our roots and renew our commitment. Together, we can — and will — navigate these challenging times and emerge stronger and united in our ongoing pursuit of a world that is truly equal for all.

With Pride,

Mark Berryhill
CEO, equalpride

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Mark Berryhill