Gracie McGraw is waving her rainbow flag high as she embraces her identity and supports the LGBTQ community. The young actress and singer, who is the daughter of famous country music stars Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, publicly came out as queer in a heartfelt social media post on June 2. This announcement aligns with the celebration of Pride Month, which commenced on June 1, honoring the experiences and struggles of LGBTQ individuals across the globe.

In her Instagram story, McGraw shared a vibrant post from another user that encouraged everyone to embrace their identities, stating, "Everyone get more gay now!" Alongside this colorful pro-LGBTQ graphic, McGraw expressed her joy, writing, "Happy freaking Pride. I love being queer." This empowering declaration resonates deeply within the LGBTQ community, especially during a month dedicated to celebrating their identities and achievements.

Pride Month is a significant time for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer community (LGBTQ). It serves not only as a celebration but also as a commemoration of the lives of LGBTQ individuals, both past and present. The roots of Pride Month can be traced back to the first Pride parade, which took place in New York City on June 28, 1970. This historic event occurred exactly one year after the Stonewall Riots, which marked a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ rights movement. That initial parade was not only a demonstration of pride but also a protest against the injustices faced by the community, taking place in cities like Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

The Stonewall Riots began on June 28, 1969, when the New York Police Department conducted a raid at the Stonewall Inn, a bar and gathering place for the LGBTQ community in Manhattan. Instead of remaining passive, the patrons and supporters rallied against the police, leading to five days of unrest that galvanized the LGBTQ rights movement across the United States. This resistance is celebrated as a courageous stand for civil rights and continues to inspire activism today.

Gracie McGraw is not only making headlines for her brave announcement but is also carving out her own niche in the entertainment industry, following in the footsteps of her iconic parents. Over the past few years, she has showcased her talent by appearing in nearly 20 episodes of the Tyler Perry series "If Loving You is Wrong," which aired from 2018 to 2020. Additionally, she took the stage in an off-Broadway production of "Babe" in the fall of 2024, where she starred alongside notable actors Marisa Tomei and Arliss Howard.

In an interview with USA TODAY in August 2023, her father, Tim McGraw, expressed immense pride in Gracie's artistic abilities after witnessing her performance at Chelsea Table + Stage in New York City. He described the experience as deeply moving, stating, "We were in tears the entire time because she was so, so good." This sentiment highlights the supportive family environment that Gracie has cultivated, enabling her to flourish in her artistic endeavors.

Looking ahead, McGraw is set to make her mark in film with her upcoming project. She will star in the indie drama "Tox," directed by Kerri Lynn Miller. Although the film is currently in post-production and does not yet have a confirmed release date, it represents an exciting new chapter in her career.

Gracie McGraw's journey is a testament not only to her talent but also to her courage in expressing her identity. Her commitment to celebrating Pride Month serves as an inspiration to many, encouraging individuals within the LGBTQ community to embrace their true selves and stand proud.

Contributing to this report are Melissa Ruggieri and Saleen Martin from USA TODAY.