Hello colorful family! Since we are based in the city of lights, Paris! Let’s follow the rainbow all the way down memory lane to explore the colorful history of French LGBTQ+ Pride months during the 2010s. This era was marked by incredible progress incredible progress, spirited celebrations and profound moments of solidarity and visibility for the queer community in France.
As Pride month is fast approaching, we take this time of year to celebrate our community and its impact its members have had on local, national, and international history. Each year Pride is celebrated each June in honor of the 1969m Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. Pride parades are a reminder of the past while serving as acts of resistance against those who wish to remove our rights.
Early 2010s: Building Momentum
In France, LGBTQ+ activism and visibility had a boom in the early 2010s. 2010 saw thousands of people attend Paris Pride, also known as "Marche des Fiertés," as it continued to flourish. The march was a strong protest calling for social acceptance and equal rights, not just a party.
The year 2013 was a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in France, when same-sex marriage and adoption became lawful. The year's Pride celebrations were very happy and well-attended, and the "Mariage pour Tous" (Marriage for All) statute was a huge win. There was a tangible sense of progress and unanimity, music, and rainbow flags flying in the streets of Paris and other places like Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse.
Mid-2010s: Expansion and Inclusivity
As the decade proceeded, Pride activities spread outside the main cities, reflecting the LGBTQ+ community's rising acceptance and visibility throughout the country. Pride festivities began to appear in more smaller cities and villages, creating a more inclusive culture while spreading the message of love and equality through France.
In the mid-2010s, the LGBTQ+ movement also began to place a greater emphasis on intersectionality. LGBTQ+ people from all walks of life, including people of color, immigrants and those with disabilities began to join in the Pride celebrations. This trend made pride festivities more inclusive, reflecting the whole community.
Late 2010s: Solidarity and Activism
The late 2010s were marked by a strong spirit of solidarity and activity within the LGBTQ+ community. In 2017, Pride festivities became increasingly political in reaction to world events and growing conservatism. The community came together to preserve hard-won rights and stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ persons experiencing persecution all across the world.
In 2019, the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots was marked with exceptionally vivid and contemplative Pride celebrations around France. This milestone prompted many people to reflect on the history of the LGBTQ+ rights movement and to remember the pioneers who battled for the freedoms we have today.
Highlights and Milestones
One of the most notable achievements of the 2010s was the greater visibility of transgender and non-binary people in the Pride movement. Events and initiatives addressing transgender rights and visibility gained traction, ensuring that all LGBTQ+ views were heard and respected.
Timeline of LGBTQ Rights in France through the 2010’s:
- 2018, Ardennes, France: The right to alter legal gender is now lawful with no limits. Since 2018, surgery is no longer necessary
- 2018, France: The right to alter legal gender is now lawful with no limits.Individuals can legally alter their gender in France. Sex reassignment surgery is state-funded. Court consent is required, as is documentation. In 2010, France became the first country to remove "transsexualism" off its official list of mental diseases
- 20 August 2015, France: Legal recognition of non-binary genders is limited to intersex individuals. A court in Tours found in favor of an intersex petitioner who wanted a third gender choice recognized on official identity cards.
- 17 June 2013, Ardennes, France: Same-sex adoption now legal. Since 2013, LGBT rights have been legal.
- 18 May 2013, France: France enacted laws granting gay and lesbian couples equal marriage rights in Metropolitan France and all overseas districts. France became the ninth European country, and the thirteenth in the world, to legalize homosexual marriage.
Pride Events during this colorful decade, also witnessed an increase in artistic expression, with art, music, and performances taking the stage. From low-key community events in Paris to extravagant parades, the spirit of Pride was taking shape in a variety of colors and imaginative ways.
Moving Forward
Looking back on the history of Pride month in France through the 2010's, its clear that this decade saw great progress, growth, viability, and solidarity. Together we have built a solid platform for future activism and celebrations.
Pride in France is more than a collection of activities; it is a lively demonstration of the LGBTQ+ community's resilience and fortitude. As we move forward, let us remember the lessons and accomplishments of the past while continuing to work for a society in which everyone may live truly and fearlessly.
Until next time, stay colorful! 🌈