By Casey Hart, Volunteer & Administrative Coordinator
“What pride means to me is the instilling of courage to live authentically and proudly, despite what others tell the queer community to do. Pride is about establishing safe spaces for youth, farmers, gardeners, and educators, to name a few, so we can grow food and learn about the Earth and ourselves together.” -Casey Hart
Why is June celebrated as Pride Month?
The LGBTQIA+ community has suffered through relentless identity-based attacks globally. The Gay Liberation Movement in the United States originated in 1969, when Stonewall Inn, a New York City gay bar, was raided by the police to arrest queer-presenting New Yorkers. Several days’ worth of protesting the police response followed, calling for an end to the unjust treatment of gay folk. This was so successful that the following year, the Eastern Regional Conference of Homophile Organizations (ECHO) organized the first parade to commemorate the anniversary of the Stonewall Inn events as a symbol of perseverance and resistance. Every June since then has featured Pride parades celebrating queer love and calling for equal treatment and opportunity for those in the LGBTQIA+ community.
What is the importance of pride?
There are vulnerable people out there who think they’re better off hiding their queerness than living their life in fullness, and others who think being queer is something that can be changed – being queer is not a choice, it’s a gift. Now more than ever, the LGBTQIA+ community needs support, especially that of queer youth. For every proud queer adult, countless closeted gay kids look up to them and see the potential for a genuine life.
How is queer history intertwined with urban agriculture?
LGBTQIA+ folk have historically been situated at the fringes of society, finding places to gather at bars and outside: places free from prejudice. Many agricultural workers fear being themselves, yet still provide nutritious food to communities. Recently, USDA programs funding rural development have excluded DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) discretionary points when deciding where to allocate funds, which directly impacts historically disenfranchised groups like those in the LGBTQIA+ community. As a result, barriers to owning and operating land have increased for queer agriculture workers. Many farmers are situated in rural towns that are less supportive of the queer community, and as such, farmers will face discrimination. Agriculture is often considered a conservative industry, underscoring the importance of creating a safe space for people of all identities.
How to celebrate and uplift during Pride month
Travel Wisconsin lists 16 events happening throughout Wisconsin during June, celebrating Pride Month!
In Madison, there is:
The Big Gay Market (TBGM) is happening from June 13-15 at the Alliant Center. Support local queer vendors and enjoy a community event celebrating gay art and activities!
Magic PRIDE Festival will happen on August 17th, 2025, from 1-7 pm at Warner Park.
Resources to Consider
The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) plays an integral role in ensuring the health and safety of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual, and other identified LGBTQ+ youth in the state of Wisconsin. DCF works to assist those particularly at risk of involvement in child protective services and youth justice social welfare programs.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides telephone support to those struggling with mental health issues, living in unsafe conditions, or simply needing someone to talk to. Call the toll-free number (988) today for help. As the Trump administration is attacking the lifeline, consider donating to help ensure the lifeline stays a life-saving resource for queer youth.
