It’s that time of year! June 1st marks the official start of Pride Month, which is a celebration and an observance of the LGBTQ+ community. Moreover, this month allows us to reflect on the struggles of those who came before us and those paving the way for our future. As we write the next chapter of LGBTQ+history (before it’s banned in schools), I’d like to share a number of ways to make the most of this year’s Pride Month.
- Be selfless and kind. No act of kindness is too small. In our fast-paced. digital-savvy world, people can forget to pause and think with humility. By treating others with respect and dignity, we can all make Pride a joyous occasion for everyone.
- Learn the alphabet. So what does “LGBTQ+” stand for? Before someone makes a joke about it having “too many letters,” let’s remember that this acronym is meant as an umbrella term for everyone. Most commonly used is “LGBT,” which stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender. (Side note, it’s transgender, not “transgendered”.) In longer versions of the acronym, you may see additional letters like “Q,” which may stand for Queer or Questioning (not everyone is out the closet, you know). You may also see LGBTQIA and that includes “Intersex” and “Asexual” or even “Ally.” An ally, in this sense, is someone who identities as heterosexual but is an active supporter of the LGBTQ+ community. The plus sign denotes more identities and sexualities that are implicitly included.
- Be a good listener. The LGBTQ+community has countless stories of their unique struggles. That includes challenges within sub-communities within the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Now is the time to listen, especially to people from marginalized communities. People sometimes have a habit of centering themselves instead of centering others. In our heteronormative society, that can take away from the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals. Let’s reflect of what we learned from LGBTQ+ individuals so we can be a little more empathetic toward others and when discussing LGBTQ+ issues.
- Use the correct pronouns. Pronouns are important to make gender non-conforming or transgender individuals feel accepted in our society. During Pride Month, make sure to listen carefully to the pronouns that individuals use for themselves. Language is always changing. Although the singular use of “they” may go against what you learned in school, keep in mind that using “they” for an individual goes as far back as evidenced by William Shakespeare. Use the chart below to learn about pronouns.
5. Be brave. The LGBTQ+ community is still very susceptible to harassment and bullying (both online and in-person). If you see someone or a group getting mistreated for who they are or who they love, then find the courage to step in and help them. As an openly gay cisgender man in a same-sex relationship, I can attest to the awkward stares and the slurs from homophobes within the past year. It would be a big help to have more allies consider standing up for a loved one or a friend.
6. Donate or volunteer. The fight for LGBTQ+ acceptance, equality, equity, and basic human dignity does not start nor stop this month. There are active homophobic, biphobic, transphobic, and all around hateful individuals looking to strip away our rights. Consider taking the next step and donating to a charitable organization that supports LGBTQ+ issues. Better yet, consider volunteering for a campaign or organization doing important work. Volunteering may look like writing postcards for a campaign, making phonecalls, canvassing the streets talking to people about the issues, hosting a small gathering to discuss LGBTQ+ issues, serving food in a shelter, or maybe even spending time with LGBTQ+ seniors. Similar to number one, any act of kindness is greatly appreciated.
7. March or protest. This month, marches and protests in support of LGBTQ+ rights are inevitable. Stemming from the Stonewall Riots in 1969 in New York City, it is a part of queer history to honor those who fought before us. Be a part of history and join a march or a protest this month. Not everyone may be comfortable joining one but neither were the people who had no choice but to fight for their lives. If you go with some friends and try to be safe, then this could be a very moving of powerful experience.
8. Be a smart shopper. In a blog post about Pride Month, one may think this is some sassy quip about where to get the best rainbow gear or discounts on glitter. Not this time! I encourage everyone to be mindful of where they shop or what they’re buying. A few do’s and don’ts:
DO: Buy from local businesses that are LGBTQ+ owned or are LGBTQ+ friendly
DO: Buy from stores or businesses that donate to LGBTQ+ causes
DO NOT: Buy from stores that donate to anti-LGBTQ legislators or hate groups.
DO NOT: Buy from stores or businesses who mistreat LGBTQ+ customers or employees.
9. Vote. In New York, the Democratic Primary is on June 28th for Governor, Lt. Governor, and the State Assembly. Research which candidates have the strongest record and platform supporting LGBTQ+ rights and addressing LGBTQ+ issues. There’s another Democratic Primary on August 23rd for State Senate and Congress. Then last but not least, show your support for the LGBTQ+ community when voting this November. The midterms elections will have a huge impact on LGBTQ+ issues, so please make sure to do your research and then vote!
10. Be your authentic self. Simply put, LGBTQ+ individuals deserve to be celebrated. No matter your sexual orientation or who you love, take some time to reflect on your identity. Then, consider being kinder to yourself. Take some me time or time to relax. Pride Month is busy with all of the events going on, but don’t forget to be good to yourself as much as others. Live your life freely, openly, and proudly.
Have a safe and happy Pride Month, everyone!
