Pew Research: Who’s Showing Up for Pride? Two-Thirds of LGBTQ Adults

June is Pride Month — a time to honor LGBTQ+ lives, history, resistance, and joy. But beyond the rainbows and corporate branding, what does Pride really mean to the LGBTQ+ community? A new Pew Research Center survey offers a revealing look.

Roughly two-thirds (66%) of LGBTQ adults in the U.S. say they’ve participated in a Pride Month event — and 49% have done so more than once. Participation is especially high among gay and lesbian adults (77%) and LGBTQ people with college degrees.

But when it comes to corporate Pride, 68% of LGBTQ adults believe companies promote Pride mainly for business reasons — not because they care. Only 16% believe most companies show genuine support for LGBTQ people. The skepticism runs even deeper among younger LGBTQ adults and Republicans.

The study also explored how well LGBTQ Americans know their own history — and where they’ve learned it. Just 32% say they’re very informed about LGBTQ U.S. history, and most didn’t learn it in school. Instead, they cite the internet (60%), friends (51%), TV and books as their main sources. School trails far behind at just 8%.

Even outside the LGBTQ community, Pride participation is growing: 16% of non-LGBTQ adults say they’ve attended Pride events — especially younger adults, Democrats, and those with higher education.

So as we march and celebrate this Pride, let’s remember: the struggle isn’t over. Pride isn’t a product. It’s a protest — and a powerful legacy that too many still have to teach themselves.