June is Pride Month for the LGBTQ+ community, no matter what’s going on in the world. It is time for this community to celebrate who they are — loud and proud. Moreover, this month is about honoring all those who fought for them to be in the here and now. And even though there’s a pandemic happening, you can still celebrate Pride.
Normally many Pride parades are held all over the country and around the world in June. However, this year most parades, like the one in NYC, will be held online instead. This is understandably disappointing to many. Luckily, you can still celebrate Pride Month to the fullest extent.
Here are 4 ways to celebrate Pride amid the pandemic:
1. Host a virtual Pride-themed viewing party.
You can use Netflix Party or Zoom to connect friends wherever they are. Watch LBGTQ+ films, documentaries, and tv shows like Secret Love. Or, enjoy binge-worthy shows like the new seasons of Queer Eye and Pose. Finally, you can share the experience of watching the televised celebration of Pride, which will air on Sunday, June 25th.
2. Donate or create an online fundraiser event.
There are over 1 million LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S., and luckily there are organizations dedicated to helping them. One such group is the Trevor Project, which is the leading national organization for LBGTQ+ youth. It supports services they may need, like a 24/ hour hotline for struggling with suicide and other mental health issues along with other great resources. Or, if you want to do something closer to home, you can research local organizations that serve your community. If you have the means, you can donate directly. Otherwise, you can set up a virtual bingo fundraiser or rally a group to make a joint donation to the cause.
3. Host a virtual Pride-themed happy hour.
One of the many wonderful things about the LGBTQ+ community is just that — it’s a community. So even if you’re far away, a happy hour over Zoom or Google Hangouts is a great way to connect with friends and “chosen family.” Make Pride-themed drinks and snacks or just toast to the month.
4. Plan a socially distant Pride Month picnic.
Some states are starting to lift restrictions, so certain in-person events are possible. If you live in a place where parks are open, you could have a Pride Month-themed picnic with friends (from a distance). This way you can still be with your friends and celebrate Pride — but do it safely.
At times it can feel like Pride Month is all about the parades and festivals that come with it. Understandably, many people look forward to these every year, and for good reason! Without these events, though, you’re still left with a wonderful month in which you can learn about your community’s past and present. You can celebrate how far this community has come in representation on television and in so many other ways. You can support charities that help this community that you may not have had growing up. Lastly, just being willing to be who you are and living your truth with your real family or chosen family. There may not be a parade this year, but Pride Month is always worth celebrating no matter what.
Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash
