The Politics of Pride Events: Global and Local Challenges

by Francesca Romana Ammaturo

Overview

Pride events have become a powerful global symbol of LGBTQIA+ visibility, celebrated in settings ranging from urban centres to remote villages across the Global North and South.

Drawing on decolonial theories, this book examines the complex relationship between Pride and modernity while addressing pressing issues such as accessibility, grassroots activism and environmental sustainability in a post-pandemic era. Challenging Eurocentric narratives of progress, modernity and human rights, the author introduces the concept of ‘Kaleidoscope Modernities’ to reveal the diverse meanings Pride embodies worldwide.

Essential for understanding the shifting landscapes of LGBTQIA+ rights and cultures, this book offers a bold, fresh perspective.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781529238686
Publisher:	Bristol University Press
Publication date:	10/17/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	240

About the Author

Francesca Romana Ammaturo is Senior Lecturer in Sociology and International Relations at London Metropolitan University.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Out and Proud in the Streets: Pride Events as a Local and Global Phenomenon

Part 1: Theorising Pride Events Between the Local and the Global

1. Decentering the 1969 Stonewall Riots: Beyond Fundational Myths?

2. Towards Progress? Interrogating the ‘Kaleidoscope Modernities’ of Pride Events

3. One Pride or Many? Pride Events Between Multiplication and Fragmentation

Part 2: Exploring the ‘Kaleidoscope Modernities’ of Pride Events

4. Free to Protest and Celebrate? Exploring Human Rights Issues at Pride Events

5. Back to Grassroots? Conflicts and Tensions in Community-Building at Pride Events

6. A Necessary Evil? Funding, Sponsorship, and the Commodification and Corporatisation of Pride Events

Part 3: No Pride Without Social Justice: Building the Futures of Pride Events

7. Making Space, Creating Place: Disability and the Making of Accessible Pride Events

8. Pride on Tow? Environmental Sustainability and Queer Eco-Criticism at Pride Events

Conclusion: Pride Events Between the past and the Future: Challenges and Opportunities

Editorial Reviews

‘This is an indispensable study of global queer communities’ central shared event, one that has also become normalized in many locations as a marker of queer progress and inclusion for all in that society.’ Momin Rahman, Trent Universityin Canada

‘An important reconsideration of some of the common assumptions about Pride events and the continuing tensions between activism and incorporation.’ Dennis Altman AM FASSA,  La Trobe University

‘A powerful reflection on the political stakes of visibility, inclusion, and solidarity, this is essential reading for anyone invested in LGBTQIA+ activism today.’ Phillip M. Ayoub, UniversityCollege London

‘An outstanding book analysing the tensions that shape the organisation of Pride events across the globe. Theoretically innovative and empirically rich, this book is a must-read.’ Koen Slootmaeckers, City St George’s, University of London

From the Publisher