June is recognized in many countries as Pride Month, a month dedicated to honoring and promoting the rights, visibility, and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance in society. It serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work that still needs to be done to create a world that embraces diversity and inclusivity for all.

GAAR's Advancing Belonging, Community & Diversity (ABCD) Committee will be participating in the Pride Parade with the theme Everyone is Welcome. The ABCD Committee began in 2022 as an initiative of the GAAR Board of Directors to provide guidance and support to diversity initiatives to create cultural shifts and increase a sense of belonging among members and the community. The Committee is focused on identifying and reducing the barriers to homeownership.

Albuquerque Pride Parade
Saturday, June 10th
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Nob Hill 

Event Details

Parade Route:  Starts at Central & Girard, proceeds E. along Central to San Mateo
Parking:  Side streets off Central, as Central will be closed
Where to Watch:  Along Central, most businesses are expected to be open. There will be vendor tables and food trucks along the route.
After the Parade:  Albuquerque PrideFest at Balloon Fiesta Park. Click here for more information.

Pride Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the ongoing challenges and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. It serves as a platform to advocate for equal rights, social justice, and acceptance, seeking to address issues such as discrimination and the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Pride Month is not only for LGBTQ+ individuals themselves but also encourages allies—friends, family members, and supporters—to join in the celebrations and stand in solidarity. Allies play a vital role in creating inclusive environments and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, ensuring that everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.

Why is this Important to Brokers?

A recent study by the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance shows that discrimination limits homeownership in LGBTQ+ populations which are estimated to hold the potential of $1 trillion in buying power in the housing market. To rectify that, the National Association of REALTORS® has taken steps to address housing discrimination in LGBTQ+ populations and promote fair housing practices.

Here are some of the NAR Initiatives and Policies implemented:

Code of Ethics:  NAR outlines the ethical responsibilities of its members, which includes a commitment to providing equal professional services without discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Fair Housing Initiatives: NAR actively supports fair housing initiatives that aim to eliminate discrimination in housing. They work with advocacy groups, governmental agencies, and other stakeholders to promote fair housing practices and protect the rights of marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals.

Policy Advocacy: NAR engages in policy advocacy to support fair housing laws and regulations that protect LGBTQ+ individuals from housing discrimination. They work to promote legislation that prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in housing.

LGBTQ+ Real Estate Resource: NAR provides resources and information for real estate professionals to better serve LGBTQ+ clients and address their unique housing needs. These resources may include best practices, guidance on inclusive language, and educational materials to promote understanding and sensitivity.

Partnerships and Education: NAR collaborates with LGBTQ+ organizations and partners to enhance education and awareness among real estate professionals about LGBTQ+ housing issues. This includes providing training programs, workshops, and resources that help REALTORS® understand the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ homebuyers and renters.

It's worth noting that while NAR can set guidelines and promote fair housing practices, it is up to individual real estate professionals to adhere to these principles. The enforcement of fair housing laws and regulations ultimately falls under the jurisdiction of government agencies responsible for upholding fair housing rights.

About Pride Month

Pride Month is a dedicated period celebrated annually in many countries around the world, typically during the month of June. It is a time when the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) community and its allies come together to commemorate and recognize the impact, struggles, achievements, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history.

Pride Month serves multiple purposes. First and foremost, it celebrates diversity, acceptance, and the right to be proud of one's sexual orientation or gender identity. It is a time to embrace and affirm LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and visibility. Pride events often include parades, festivals, marches, educational workshops, and cultural activities that promote inclusivity and equality.

Pride Month has its roots in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, particularly the Stonewall riots that took place in June 1969 in New York City. During those events, the LGBTQ+ community fought back against discriminatory police raids at the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in Greenwich Village. These protests marked a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and served as a catalyst for the modern gay rights movement.