As June comes to an end, it is also the end of Pride Month. If you are anything like me, it can be sad to end such a joyous month. I love celebrating love and living authentically and never want the celebration to end.
Yet as Pride Month comes to an end, I like to remind myself how I can celebrate the LGBT community year round. Pride does not and should not be condensed to just one month.
Here are my top five tips for celebrating Pride year round, because Pride is never defined to a certain time period.
🏳️🌈 Support LGBT artists
It is never the wrong time of the year to support LGBT artists. Read books by LGBT authors, watch movies produced by those within the LGBT community, and listen to music by LGBT artists.
You can also support LGBT actors, dancers, and visual artists.Not sure where to begin?
Check out these 8 emergent LGBT musicians, 16 LGBT visual artists, and 50 LGBT movies.
🏳️🌈 Shop at LGBT owned businesses
Beware of businesses that rainbow wash. These businesses only pretend to support the LGBT community during Pride Month by changing their logo to a rainbow or adopting an inclusive motto, but they often have or support policies that harm the LGBT community.
Instead, research and support LGBT owned businesses. By supporting these businesses, you not only support the owner, but many of these businesses also have LGBT staff and give back to the LGBT community.
Start off by buying your Pride gear from businesses that support the LGBT community year round.
🏳️🌈 Build community with other LGBT folks
Remember that you are not alone. There is an entire LGBT community to support and celebrate you. Join an LGBT organization or club, start an LGBT book club and read books by LGBT authors, or attend restaurants, cafes, or bars where others within the LGBT community frequent.
🏳️🌈 Research LGBT history and famous LGBT figures
The LGBT community has a long, fascinating, and remarkable history. Researching the history of the Pride Movement and famous LGBT activists is not only a great educational experience, but also a reminder of the greatness the community is built upon.
From the Stonewall Riots of 1969 to the life and legacy of Civil Rights and Gay Rights pioneer Bayard Rustin, there is not a shortage of events and people within the LGBT community to learn about.
🏳️🌈 Support LGBT organizations
There are countless LGBT nongovernmental organizations doing amazing work to support LGBT people and fight against harmful stigmas and laws. You can support these organizations by donating money, volunteering your time, or spreading the word about the great work they are doing.
Check out this comprehensive list of LGBT organizations worldwide.
🏳️🌈 Be You and Be Proud!
Remember to celebrate Pride year round by celebrating you! Regardless of how you identify or who you love, you are worthy of greatness. Practice self care and self love all 365 days of the year.
You come from a powerful, courageous, and proud community.
You are that legacy now. Be Proud always!
Leave a comment