LGBTQ+ Wrapped: 15 Milestones of 2024

Dec. 09 2024

by Lachlan

As 2024 winds down, we reflect on a year that may have brought its fair share of challenges, but the LGBTQ+ community once again proved its resilience, creativity, and vibrancy. Whether breaking barriers in sports, music, or politics or finding joy and solidarity in unexpected places, the year sparkled with moments that reminded us why Pride is more than a season — it's a state of being. Here's a look back at some of the year's most inspiring milestones. 

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1) LGBTQ+ Olympians: A record-breaking 199 LGBTQ+ athletes competed in the Paris Olympics, including trailblazing trans-Paralympian Valentina Petrillo and Canadian stars Quinn and Kailen Sheridan.

2) Sam Smith made history in 2024: They are the first openly non-binary artist to have their portrait featured in the National Portrait Gallery in London. The iconic painting "Gloria" was created by Pierre et Gilles.

3) Eurovision's LGBTQ+ Milestone: Eurovision 2024 featured its most diverse lineup yet, with Switzerland's non-binary artist Nemo winning hearts and the trophy with their queer love ballad.

4) Baltic LGBTQ+ Progress: Estonia made history as the first former Soviet country to legalize same-sex marriage, and Latvia began recognizing same-sex civil unions.

5) Beyoncé's Renaissance Tour: Beyoncé honored queer creators and ballroom culture on her Renaissance Tour, cementing her legacy as an LGBTQ+ ally.

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6) Namibia Decriminalizes Homosexuality: Namibia's High Court struck down colonial anti-gay laws, marking a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ rights in Africa.

7) The Sims 5 Embraces Queer Stories: The Sims 5 introduced Pride events, personalized pronouns, and new tools for crafting LGBTQ+ narratives.

8) Spain's Trans Soccer Team Debuts: Fenix FC, Spain's first all-trans men's soccer team, made its debut, showcasing strength and inclusivity in sports.

9) UN Resolution for Intersex Rights: The United Nations adopted its first-ever resolution to protect intersex people from discrimination and violence.

10) Greece Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: Greece became the first Orthodox-majority nation to legalize same-sex marriage, with its first wedding in March.

11) Kim Petras Tops Spotify Charts: Kim Petras made history as the first openly trans artist to top Spotify's global charts with her summer hit Future Fever.

12) Thailand Passes Marriage Equality Bill: Thailand's same-sex marriage law passed, set to take effect in January 2025, making it a trailblazer in Southeast Asia.

13) Ukraine's Pride March: Kyiv hosted its first Pride march since the Russian invasion, a moving testament to LGBTQ+ resilience and solidarity.

14) Troye Sivan's World Tour: Troye Sivan's Something to Give Each Other tour celebrated queer love and joy, becoming one of the year's top LGBTQ+ pop tours.

15) Heartstopper Wins at the Emmys: Netflix's Heartstopper made history as the first LGBTQ+ teen drama to win Outstanding Drama Series, cementing its cultural impact.

2024 was a year of courage, celebration, and queer excellence—proof that even in challenging times, the LGBTQ+ community continues to lead the world with love.

Need some last-minute inspiration for NYE? Check out our round-up of LGBTQ+ destinations to celebrate the turn of 2025.