June 22, 2007 | Sex & Society

HAPPY PRIDE!

Half-naked hunks meet dykes on bikes. Leather men march. And PFLAG reminds us we're still fighting for acceptance. Gay pride -- queer pride when you add the transgendered, bisexual, questioning and curious -- is an annual event for both activists and party animals.

In June of 1969 -- that's almost 40 years ago, boys -- a group of 'agitators' gathered together in what would become the defining moment of the modern gay rights movement. After police raided the Stonewall Inn, a local gay bar, protestors rioted in the streets and demanded an end to the discrimination and violence against the queer community.

Fast forward to 2007. We're still fighting -- for equal rights, for safety, for recognition -- but we do it in our own ways. Some are rallying the troops, signing the petitions and carrying the signs. Others are celebrating their lives by dancing and partying, dressing up or stripping down.

Whoever you are, and however you celebrate, be safe and be PROUD!