What Is Pride Month & How To Show Your Support
It’s June, which not only means it’s the official start of summer, but it’s also time to celebrate Pride Month UK!
Yes, that’s right - this month is dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ communities around the world and promoting diversity, equality and visibility.
After spending the last two years celebrating from our homes or at a distance, we can’t wait to get back into the swing of things and celebrate Pride Month in all its glory with the likes of festivals, marches and parades.
So, whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally just like us, there are plenty of ways you can show your support. Our LGBTQ+ community deserves all the respect, love and support and we’re here to give it to them, not just now, but always.
WHAT IS PRIDE?
Pride Month is a celebration of solidarity, acceptance and equality which encourages individuals all around the world to be proud of who they are regardless of their sexuality (preach!)
In June, people come together in love and friendship to celebrate the work of LGBTQ+ people, promote how far LGBTQ+ rights have come and raise awareness of issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community, including homophobia and hate crime.
WHEN IS PRIDE MONTH?
Pride is celebrated in June to honour the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in the US, which acted as the driving force for changes in gay rights worldwide.
This year, International LGBTQ+ Pride Day will be celebrated on Tuesday 28th June.
HOW TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT DURING PRIDE MONTH
From educating yourself about the history of LGBTQ+ to supporting local LGBTQ+ businesses and charities, there are many ways to celebrate Pride Month.
Discover more about how you can make a positive impact below.
1. BE AN ALLY
The simplest, and arguably most effective, way you can support Pride Month is to be an ally. Take the time to show your support to your friends, family, coworkers and other LGBTQ+ people in your life. Whether that means being their plus-one at a Pride Parade or going for a coffee date at a local LGBTQ+ owned cafe, it’s the little things that make a big difference.
2. EDUCATE YOURSELF
While most people have heard of Pride Month, not everyone knows why we celebrate it. Use this opportunity to educate yourself about the history of the LGBTQ+ community.
Did you know an American lady called Brenda Howard is known as ‘The Mother of Pride’ after organising the first ever gay pride march?
Remember, a big part of Pride is recognising the struggles and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community and understanding the journey they have been on to get to where they are today.
3. ATTEND A PRIDE PARADE OR EVENT
From London to New York, and everywhere in between, there are a whole host of Pride events to show your support and have fun, of course!
Colourful, diverse and uplifting, these events are a serious treat for your senses and are a great way to experience what Pride is all about.
4. DISCOVER LGBTQ+ FILMS, TV SHOWS AND LITERATURE
Another great way to celebrate Pride Month is to immerse yourself in LGBTQ+ media. The LGBTQ+ community is full of vibrant and influential works which provide for an entertaining, yet equally informative, way to enrich your knowledge.
And the best part? You can do it from the comfort of your own home. Cosy up on the sofa and enjoy a LGBTQ+ movie marathon or bury your head in a book by an LGBTQ+ author. Unveil a whole other world and try something new this Pride Month.
5. DONATE TO LGBTQ+ CHARITIES
Since Pride is all about celebrating the strength, resilience and beauty of the LGBTQ+ community, consider giving back to causes that support exactly that.
Remember, donating isn’t just about giving money, you can also donate your time and even knowledge. Activism is at the heart of the LGBTQ+ community and you can help make a real difference by getting involved with organisations, all whilst having heaps of fun.
Check out these LGBTQ+ charities and discover how you can help:
6. DON’T PREJUDGE
Prejudice is never the answer, no matter what situation you’re in.
When someone in your life tells you that they are LGBTQ+, it can be difficult to know how to react. You may feel surprised, excited, confused, a mixture of all three or none of the above. Regardless of how you feel, be honest, but above all, be supportive. Consider the importance of your response and the impact it could have.
However you choose to celebrate, Pride Month UK is all about showing your support and simply standing up for what’s right.
Our community means everything and more to us and we will continue to stand by them no matter what.