Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization.
Mahatma Gandhi
In the midst of grief and healing, there’s a celebration underway.
This month marks the start of annual LGBTQ+ Pride traditions and, here in the Twin Cities, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
In honor of the 50th anniversary of Twin Cities Pride celebrations, we’re sharing 5 simple ways anyone can celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride from anywhere, this month and beyond:
1. Take a self-guided history tour.
A crucial piece of celebrating our LGBTQ+ community members of today is understanding the broader historical context of their stories. By taking the time to learn more about LGBTQ+ history, you’re affirming the value of these lived experiences and heightening your awareness of their presence in the world today.
TRY THIS:
Take a spin through these archives of LGBTQ+ communities’ history in Minnesota.
2. Center LGBTQ+ culture in your entertainment.
From screenwriting to directing to the characters onscreen and the actors who bring them to life, LGBTQ+ storytelling is a rich and dynamic presence in film– and in all forms of art. There’s never been a greater variety of options to choose from, so grab your popcorn and curl up on the couch to enjoy some LGBTQ+ centered entertainment.
TRY THIS:
Choose from this list of LGBTQ+ focused films currently available for streaming.
3. Mind your language.
It’s not about being “perfect” (none of us are!) or “politically correct” (that’s not the point). Educating yourself about common, current terminology, pronoun usage, and potentially problematic language is simply an acknowledgement that our words are powerful. By choosing to use your power for good, you’re demonstrating your support for the dignity and rights of your LGBTQ+ neighbors.
TRY THIS:
Check out this glossary of affirming (and problematic) terms.
4. Choose 1 intersection to explore more deeply.
If you find it difficult to sum up the LGBTQ+ community in a single sentence, it’s because the acronym encompasses a complex and nuanced variety of experiences. And that’s a wonderful thing! You can help celebrate this diversity by exploring more deeply one of the many intersections of identities within the community that perhaps haven’t been visible to you in the past.
TRY THIS:
Learn more about the Black Trans Lives Matter movement and how you can get involved.
5. Promote LGBTQ+ emotional wellness.
While not all LGBTQ+ individuals’ experiences are alike, many experience unique challenges due to discrimination and harassment, denial of human rights, stigma, and other threats to emotional wellness. Consider supporting organizations that protect and promote the emotional wellness of LGBTQ+ community members. And never underestimate what an incredible force for good your own emotional wellness is; we’re here to support you, no matter what your story is.
TRY THIS:
- Donate your time and/or money to an organization that promotes LGBTQ+ emotional wellness.
- Seek the support of a professional to promote your own emotional wellness.
Enjoy this post? You might also like:
3 Myths About Emotional Wellness
Your Emotional Wellness: 50+ Ways to Support It
Looking for some extra support?