The Bellevue School District seeks to create a safe, caring and respectful environment for the diverse students, families and staff in our community. During the month of June, the district celebrates Pride Month by affirming the identity of members of the LGBTQIA+ community and recognizing the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer* individuals have had on our collective history.
Pride Month History
In the United States, Pride Month honors the Stonewall Uprising which took place in June 1969 in New York City. During that summer, the Stonewall Inn was raided by police, and gay, lesbian, and transgender customers were arrested. At the time, laws made it permissible to have a business shut down for having gay employees or serving gay patrons. On that particular night, members of the city’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer* (LGBTQ) community decided to stand up for their rights — sparking an uprising that would launch a new era of civil rights demonstrations.
The Stonewall Uprising was a tipping point for the members and supporters of LGBTQ communities. The first Pride march took place in New York City in 1970, on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. The march demonstrated against centuries of discriminatory institutional practices that allowed government hostility in employment and housing discrimination.
Today, Pride celebrations across the nation include parades, community parties, informational events and festivals. Pride Month events attract millions of participants from around the world. In addition, each June, moments of reflection are held for members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS.
District Priority, Student Well-Being
Bellevue School District believes that students learn best in safe, secure, and stable environments. Inclusive practices support each and every student’s ability to empathize, connect and collaborate with a diverse group of peers, and encourages respect. This priority has shown to result in better academic and mental health outcomes. This priority aligns with our commitment to affirm, inspire, and sustain an environment where students thrive.
* LGBTQIA+ includes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and/or questioning, and the countless affirmative ways that people choose to self-identify.
Celebrate Pride in Bellevue
The City of Bellevue kicked off Pride month with a flag raising and remarks from city leaders celebrating the contributions of the local LGBTQIA+ community and Bellevue’s diversity. This was followed by a community party featuring a keynote speech, performances from local LGBTQIA+ artists, music and food. A recording of the event is available through the City’s YouTube channel.
On Sunday, June 4, the Bellevue Downtown Association along with Eastside Pride PNW, welcomes community members, with or without their four-legged friends, to come stroll the through the streets of Downtown Bellevue for Paws & Pride Dog Jog & Walk. The event will start at Ashwood Park (adjacent to Bellevue Library) at 8:30 a.m. Register today!