Did you know that the very first pride parade took place in 1970? People have been gathering to celebrate the queer community for over half a century, and as the movement has gone more mainstream, plenty of people participate every year.
Have you ever wondered about unique ways to celebrate pride? Here are some ideas that will have you feeling fun and festive all throughout the month of June.
1. Attend a Pride Parade
The pride parade is a quintessential LGBTQ event that takes place in most cities during Pride Month. It involves people of many different backgrounds and organizations marching in a festive parade event.
If your town does not have a pride parade, you can work with others to organize it yourself. It may help to make people more aware of the queer community within your small area, especially if you live somewhere more rural.
To take your parade participation up a notch, try wearing a fun costume that shows off your style. You can get together with a group of your friends and even design coordinating costumes so you can all match for the event.
Many people opt to wear the colors of the pride flag or something more specifically related to a flag representing their orientation. For instance, people who are transgender tend to wear the colors pink, blue, and white that is on the transgender flag.
Where is gay pride celebrated? For a unique experience, try going to the nearest big city if you have the resources. These often have sponsored pride parades with big names who attend, such as politicians, artists, and social media public figures.
2. Learn About Queer History
Celebrating pride would not exist if trailblazers had not fought for queer rights for decades, and even centuries, before the first events started taking place. It is vital to learn all about queer history gay rights, and the gay rights movement.
There are many different forms of media that you can use for your personal education, including podcasts, books, films, and music. You can also look forward to new releases every June specifically for Pride Month.
The first gay pride event took place at Stonewall in New York, in 1969. Activists such as Marsha P. Johnson initiated a riot, which has transformed into the gay pride celebrations of today.
You can also explore artwork by LGBTQ folks and support their work. Although many straight people have produced stunning pieces of entertainment, queer artists have a history of marginalization in almost any industry.
Even if you think that you know everything about the gay rights movement, make an effort every year to learn more and expand your knowledge base so you are better educated about the issues.
3. Donate to Organizations
Celebrating pride also includes donating to organizations that help LGBTQ people. Since these people often struggle with abusive housing situations and judgmental family members, they need funding and help, especially minors.
Many queer people are homeless or on the verge of homelessness. Some of these funds can go toward providing their basic necessities, such as clothes, food, and toiletries.
In addition, many organizations work hard to pass legislation to protect queer folks in the workplace and schools. Your donation can go towards laws that provide equal rights to the LGBTQ community, especially in places where they face more discrimination.
Before you donate to any site or fundraiser, make sure to vet them thoroughly so you know where your money is going. It is a good idea to research on the web or ask around social media to see if your friends know reputable organizations.
To get a discount on your tax bill, save your donation receipts. You may be able to use them to count toward charitable donations come tax time as well.
4. Create Fun Artwork
Artwork is one of the most beautiful ways to express your pride, so do not hold back when it comes to inspired pieces. Even if you do not feel like you have any talent, showcasing your dedication to Pride Month is important in any way.
You can host a pride party with your family or friends, get together, and create communal artwork, such as a large sculpture or a canvas that you can hang on the wall.
If you find that your town lacks queer artwork, contact the correct authorities to see if you can make a mural somewhere. It will brighten up any space and you can recruit others in the community to help you.
For established artists, it may be a good idea to donate some of your proceeds to LGBTQ organizations. This will help you support Pride Month and even give you more potential customers.
5. Put Up Decorations
One of the easiest things you can do to support the queer community is to display your pride in a bold way. If you’re straight, use your privilege to be vocal about supporting LGBTQ and gay rights.
If you are wondering how to showcase your pride, it can be as easy as flying the pride flag in front of your home. It will give your neighbors and folks in your community a sign that all are welcome at your house and you support human rights for everyone.
You can be even more festive and create decorations such as pride bunting, signs to put on your garage or in your windows, and orientation-specific flags.
You can make your own decorations or buy them online. It is helpful to store them all in the same place, such as a labeled box so that you can have easy access to them year after year.
Celebrate Pride the Right Way
If you want to celebrate pride, whether you are an LGBTQ person or an ally, you should definitely do it in style. With these ideas to get you started, you can have the perfect pride month.
Want to learn more about how you can celebrate any important holiday? Take a look around our site for more ideas and inspiration.
