Rainbows.  Parades. Recognition of individuality.  A move to shape a more accepting future for our country and world.  What’s the story behind LGBTQ+ Pride Month?

On June 28th, 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a popular LGBTQ+ bar in Greenwich Village in New York City. It was not the first time it or other bars like it had been raided to round up gay men and trans women. However, this time, a massive crowd began to form around the bar, and eventually, violence broke out.  Crowd members clashed with police for multiple nights, and the riots received extensive national media attention.

The riots acted as a catalyst for a new era of activism. Many organizations sprang up to build on the momentum around the country and the world.   And progress has been made. From the American Psychiatric Association removing homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses to the election of openly LGBTQ+ political representatives like Kathy Kozachenko and Harvey Milk to the Supreme Court ruling in favor of same-sex marriage, and most recently, to the Las Vegas Raiders defensive lineman, Carl Nassib’s announcement that he was gay, there have been many breakthroughs in the 50 years since Stonewall.

The Coupa Supplier community is dedicated to helping diverse businesses grow and thrive. According to the National LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, there are over 1.4 million LGBTQ+-owned businesses.  If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and own a business, now is the time to consider certification?  You have earned a seat at the equity table, and with diversity certification, you will have access to new business opportunities to help your company grow.   To learn more, check out our diversity certification resources for the LGBTQ+ community.