It’s almost 1:00 am as I’m writing this on July 2nd, a couple of days after the end of #PrideMonth when brands usually move on to the next trendy thing to focus on. If you’re unfamiliar with what Pride Month is, in a nutshell, it is an annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, serving as a platform for visibility, solidarity, and recognition. But, it all started with the Stonewall Riots decades ago. You can brush up on your Pride Month history here.
In the wake of Supreme Court rulings rolling back LGBTQ+ protections and rights, state legislatures doing the same across the country, and brands like Budlight and Target throwing the community under the bus after blowback from conservative groups for showing even bare minimum support for us – I have to tell you this Pride Month hasn’t felt great.
I know that there are genuinely supportive brands out there that want to do good for the LGBTQ+ community, but maybe are afraid or don’t know how where to start, beyond the annual rainbow logo change and a post on social media one month out of the year.
While it’s essential to acknowledge the progress made during this designated month, it is equally important to extend support and recognition throughout the entire year. Otherwise, you might be offering little more than lip service.
Authentic allyship and genuine inclusion require consistent effort and a commitment to uplifting marginalized communities.
So, as a queer person that coaches a lot of brands on what to do, I’m going to lay out some meaningful steps you can implement for the rest of the year (and hopefully every year) to recognize #Pride year-round and create a lasting impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Educate Yourself
Knowledge is a powerful tool for promoting understanding and empathy. Take the initiative to educate yourself about LGBTQ+ history, terminology, and the challenges faced by the community. Read books, watch documentaries, and explore reputable online resources. By becoming informed, you’ll be better equipped to challenge prejudice and engage in meaningful conversations.
As a start, check out the Human Rights Campaign, GLSEN, GLAAD, and PFLAG just to name a few.
Support LGBTQ+-Owned Businesses
Show your support by actively seeking out and patronizing LGBTQ+-owned businesses. Whether it’s your morning coffee, a clothing store, or professional services, consciously choosing to spend your money at these establishments helps foster economic empowerment and sends a clear message of support.
Check out the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) for chapters in your state that likely has a list of certified LGBTQ+-owned businesses you can support.
Advocate for LGBTQ+ Rights
Pride is more than a celebration; it is a time to rally behind the fight for equality, and we need allies now more than ever to stand with us.
You can stand up for LGBTQ+ rights by participating in local, regional, or national advocacy efforts. Write to your elected representatives, join LGBTQ+ organizations, attend rallies or marches, and amplify the voices of those fighting for change. Together, we can advocate for policies that protect the rights and dignity of all individuals.
Volunteer and Donate
Consider volunteering your time and skills to LGBTQ+ organizations and charities.
Many organizations require assistance throughout the year, whether through event planning, fundraising, or mentoring programs. Additionally, financial contributions make a significant impact on the resources available to support the community’s needs.
Foster Inclusivity in Your Community
Creating an inclusive environment starts at the grassroots level. Engage with your local community organizations, schools, and workplaces to promote diversity and inclusivity.
Advocate for LGBTQ+-inclusive policies, such as gender-neutral restrooms, inclusive healthcare, and anti-discrimination measures. By fostering a welcoming atmosphere, you can contribute to making a positive difference in people’s lives.
Be an Ally Every Day
Being an ally is an ongoing commitment that extends beyond a single month.
Practice active listening, validate experiences, and offer support to LGBTQ+ friends, family members, colleagues, and acquaintances throughout the year.
Educate others on the importance of LGBTQ+ inclusion and encourage them to be allies as well.
Amplify LGBTQ+ Voices
Use your platform, whether it’s social media, a blog, or personal conversations, to amplify LGBTQ+ voices. Share stories, artwork, and experiences that reflect the diversity within the community. By actively promoting LGBTQ+ visibility and representation, you can challenge stereotypes and create spaces for marginalized voices to be heard.
In Conclusion…
While it’s impossible to sum up ALL the ways you can support in one article, I hope this helps. Recognizing and supporting the LGBTQ+ community goes beyond a single month of celebration.
It requires continuous effort, education, and empathy year-round. By actively engaging in meaningful ways, fostering inclusivity, and promoting equality, we can work towards creating a world where every LGBTQ+ individual feels seen, heard, and valued.
Together, let us embrace Pride year-round and build a more accepting and inclusive society for all.