Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Pride Month (LGBTQ) is celebrated in June to commemorate the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall riots in Manhattan, New York City. This event marks the beginning of the movement to outlaw discriminatory laws and practices against LGBTQ+ Americans. Pride Month is also a way to acknowledge the influence and importance of LGBTQ+ individuals, foster a spirit of community among members and allies, and call attention to the continued need for equal rights and visibility. Learn more about LGBTQ+ Pride Month from the Library of Congress.
In celebration and support of the diversity of our community, the Stratford Library presents an exciting lineup of special events (sponsored by the Stratford Library Association Board and the Square One Theatre Company) for the month of June. Click here to download our Pride 2020 events flyer.
As part of the celebration, we invite you to share your Pride story! Share your Pride Story–a story, message, poem, drawing, or photo–to be posted to our online gallery (coming soon). Stories can be submitted throughout the month by direct messaging us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
Around the world, gatherings and celebrations for Pride 2020 will not be taking place as expected. However, you can share the Pride spirit and join a virtual global celebration through All Out’s
Un-Distanced Pride Festival. Explore the festival’s line up.
Book & Media lists
Here at the Stratford Library we celebrate and support the diversity of our community. Explore the culture, heritage, contributions and achievements of folks in the LGBTQ+ community with our reading and watching recommendations:
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 Rainbow Pride Booksfor Kids |
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 LGBTQ E-books,audiobooks & video |
 LGBTQ Films |
Stonewall Wall Book Awards – The first and most enduring award for LGBTQIA+ books, sponsored by the American Library Association’s Rainbow Round Table.
Lambda Literary YA Book Reviews – For over 30 years, Lambda Literary has dedicated itself to championing LGBTQ literature and supporting LGBTQ writers at all stages of life.
Rainbow Library – LGBTQ+ Affirming K-12 E-Books for Your Computer, Phone, Tablet, or
E-Reader.
Online Resources
Remembering Stonewall (StoryCorps)
LGTB Rights Milestones Fast Facts
Gender Identity Spectrum – Explained
Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth (The Trevor Project)
It Gets Better Project – A nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth around the globe.
Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network (GLSEN) – Works to ensure that LGBTQ students are able to learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment.
LGBTQ+ Comprehensive Health & Well-being Guide (Drugwatch)
Trans Student Equality Resource (TSER) – A youth-led organization dedicated to transforming the educational environment for trans and gender nonconforming students through advocacy and empowerment.
Local Resources
The Safe Harbor Project – Guarantees fair and equal treatment, services and resources for LGBT youth and families in Connecticut and is a collaboration between the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and True Colors, Inc.
PFLAQ Norwalk – Triangle Community Center – PFLAG is the nation’s largest family and ally organization, uniting people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) with families, friends and allies. PFLAG is committed to advancing equality and full societal affirmation of LGBTQ people through its threefold mission of support, education, and advocacy.
New Haven Pride Center – Provides educational, cultural and social enrichment for the LGBTQ+ community, its allies, and members, to make a positive contribution to the entire community of Greater New Haven.