Fighting anti-LBGTQ+ legislation and supporting queer creators are crucial parts of Pride.
June is Pride Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.
As the festivities roll on, however, it’s important to remember the origins of this celebratory month.
Photo: ANGELA WEISS/Getty Images
The historical arc of the holiday, like the community it represents, is fraught with societal tension.
Famously, thefirst Pridewas a multiday riot at and around the Stonewall Inn against police violence and discrimination.
The legacy of that riot reverberates through Pride events to this day.
We’re both rejoicing in our community’s richness and resilience while continuing to fight for our complete liberation.
Unfortunately, the reality is a lot more complex than the cascade of corporate rainbows would have us believe.
The Human Rights Campaignrecorded at least 32 violent deathsof transgender and gender-expansive individuals in 2023.
All is not even close to well.
Yet we still have reason to rejoice.
The queer community has a richness of culture and history we’re only beginning to truly explore and enjoy.
Here are just a few.
This basic constitutional right is constantly under attack by lawmakers who seem to prefer that we just disappear.
Call your lawmakers and join protests to fight the passing of discriminatory bills.
Consider setting up a monthly donation to an organization fighting to protect the community.
Engaging with queer media supports the LGBTQ+ community in two ways.
For LGBTQ+ artists, this means more support for their craft and more opportunities to continue their important work.
Thankfully, those days are gone.
We now have a wealth of incredible queer media out there, just waiting for you to dive in.
Support Queer-Owned Businesses
Need somecandles?Coffee beans?Jewelry?
Someunderwear, acute T-shirt, or othercool fashion?
Whatever it is you’re shopping for, there’s aqueer-owned businessthat sells it.
Comcast has given $121,350 to anti-LGBTQ+ politicians.
Join (or start!)
an LGBTQ+ employee resource group at your workplace.
Loudly stand up for others facing discrimination.
Wherever you are in the world, there are queer folks near you who need your support.
