Everyone Belongs: Celebrating Pride Month at the Gateway Region YMCA
June is Pride Month, a time to honor love, identity, and the power of belonging. At the Gateway Region YMCA, we’re proud to stand with our LGBTQ+ members, staff, and neighbors who help make our community stronger, kinder, and more connected every day.
Spotlight on the History of Pride in St. Louis
St. Louis has a meaningful place in LGBTQ+ history, from local Pride celebrations to the people and community spaces that helped shape visibility, belonging, and progress.
LGBTQ+ History Month Started Here
LGBTQ+ History Month was founded in 1994 by Rodney Wilson, a history teacher at Mehlville High School in south St. Louis County. Wilson, widely recognized as Missouri's first openly gay public school teacher, helped spark a national movement to recognize LGBTQ+ history, visibility, and contributions.
St. Louis' First Official Pride Event
St. Louis hosted its first official Pride event on April 20, 1980. The week-long celebration included community gatherings, a rally at Washington University, and a march down Lindell Boulevard in the Central West End billed as "The Lesbians and Gays Walk for Charity."
A Bookstore with a Legacy
Left Bank Books, St. Louis's oldest independent bookstore, has long been connected to local LGBTQ+ history. Since opening in 1969, it has served as a place for readers, writers, and community members to find stories, conversation, and connection.
Josephine Baker's St. Louis Roots
Josephine Baker, a legendary entertainer, activist, and bisexual woman, was born Freda Josephine McDonald in St. Louis. Her life and legacy continue to inspire generations through her artistry, courage, and advocacy.
Historical information in this section was compiled from Images of America: Gay and Lesbian St. Louis by Steven Louis Brawley (Arcadia Publishing, 2016) and the St. Louis LGBT History Project.
How We're Celebrating Pride
This month, we're excited to share how the Y is uplifting and celebrating our LGBTQ+ community. Our LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group will be at PrideFest on June 27-28 in Downtown St. Louis, with the Mobile Y stationed onsite with activities and a cool place to step out of the summer heat.
We hope you stop by and say hi!
Support Local LGBTQ+ Owned and Friendly Businesses
Pride Month is a great time to celebrate the people, places, and businesses that help make St. Louis a more welcoming and vibrant community. Looking for ways to show your support? Here are a few local spots and resources to explore.
Sugarwitch
A proudly queer-owned St. Louis shop serving creative, small-batch ice cream sandwiches and frozen treats.
Prism STL
An LGBTQ+ venue in The Grove featuring drag brunch, shows, nightlife, and community events.
4 Hens Creole Kitchen
A Black, women, and LGBTQ+ owned restaurant at City Foundry STL serving Creole-inspired favorites.
Left Bank Books
Of course we had to spotlight St. Louis' oldest independent bookstore, known for books, author events, and community connection.
Want to find more local businesses?
The St. Louis LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce and Queer Professional Alliance both offer directories to help you discover more LGBTQ+ owned, operated, and affirming businesses throughout the region.
How You Can Join In
Pride Month is a reminder that when we show up for each other, we all grow stronger together. Join us in celebrating, learning, and supporting a community where everyone can be themselves.
At the Gateway Region YMCA, we believe that community is for all, this month and every month. Happy Pride! 🏳️🌈