Why Pride Month Matters to Everyone: Opening Hearts and Minds
By Andrea Gonzalez
Published on 6/18/25
Every June, cities around the world are filled with vibrant colors, parades, and celebrations of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. For many people, these displays are joyful expressions of love and identity. But for others — especially those who didn’t grow up learning about LGBTQ+ experiences — Pride Month can feel confusing, unfamiliar, or even uncomfortable.
At Baypoint Counseling Center, we believe understanding is the first step toward connection. You don’t have to identify as LGBTQ+ to appreciate why Pride Month matters. And you don’t have to agree with every aspect of someone’s identity to recognize their humanity.
If you’re someone who feels unsure about all this, if Pride seems like “someone else’s issue,” or you wonder why it needs so much attention, then this blog is for you. We invite you to read with an open mind and a curious heart, leaving all biases behind.
Why Pride Exists
Pride Month isn’t just about colorful parades. It exists because for much of history , even still today, LGBTQ+ people have faced rejection, discrimination, and even violence simply for who they love, for who they are.
In the U.S., homosexuality was illegal for decades, and transgender people still face barriers to healthcare and safety.
Many LGBTQ+ youth experience family rejection and higher rates of depression and suicide.
In many countries, being LGBTQ+ is still criminalized.
Pride began as a way to stand up against this discrimination — to say: “We deserve to live openly, without fear.” It is a month for visibility, remembrance, and celebration of progress — and a reminder that the journey toward full equality is ongoing.
Bridging the Gap: If You’re Unsure or Struggling to Understand
If you grew up with certain beliefs, Pride Month can feel challenging. Maybe you were taught that LGBTQ+ identities are “wrong” or even “unnatural.” Maybe it’s hard to reconcile what you see in today’s culture with what you’ve always known.
That’s okay. Curiosity is the antidote to fear. You are allowed to ask questions. You are allowed to learn. The world is changing — and when we listen to those whose lives are different from ours, we grow.
Here are a few questions you might explore this month:
What would it be like if I had to hide a core part of who I am, just to be accepted?
Why does representation and visibility matter so much to marginalized groups?
How can I support someone, even if I don’t fully understand their experience?
What small assumptions do I make about gender or relationships without realizing it?
A Human Story, Not a Political One
At its core, Pride is not about politics. It is about human beings longing to be seen, respected, and loved for who they are. Every person, LGBTQ+ or not, knows this longing.
You don’t have to change your beliefs overnight. You don’t have to wave a flag or attend a parade. But if you can extend empathy, if you can listen to someone’s story, if you can see the person beyond the label — that is a powerful start.
Why It Matters for All of Us
When we create a world where LGBTQ+ people feel safe and valued, everyone benefits.
Children grow up knowing they can be their authentic selves.
Families become places of support, not shame.
Communities become more compassionate and inclusive.
Pride Month invites us all to reflect: How can we make this world a little more welcoming — not just in June, but every day?
At Baypoint Counseling Center, we support clients of all identities and backgrounds. We know that mental health thrives where acceptance grows. If this blog has sparked curiosity in you, that’s wonderful. Keep exploring. Keep listening. Keep learning. The more we understand one another, the brighter the future becomes for all.
Happy Pride Month. 🌈