How to Do Pride: Celebrating and Supporting

By Clove Morgan

Bright and colorful, loud and proud, Pride Month is a kaleidoscope of parades, posts, and activism. Pride Month is all about its name: pride. For those in the LGBTQ+ community, it’s their opportunity to strengthen their support system and a connection to their identity. Allies can join in on the celebration and advocate on behalf of loved ones and strangers. That being said, allies and queer people alike might struggle to navigate their participation, especially if this is the first pride month they are able to take part in. Here is a short guide on a few ways to make an impact in big and little ways.

The current political climate has made Pride Month a little less inviting compared to the past. With transphobic and homophobic legislation being introduced across the country, taking part in overtly pride-based events might not be comfortable or even safe for those of us in the queer community. The best thing you can do to show your support is to speak up. If you’re old enough, vote. Take action by doing your part and uplifting candidates and political figures who work toward securing LGBTQ+ rights. If you’re under the age of eighteen, use your voice and start the conversation for a better, safer future.

Social media is an amazing tool and is undeniably one of the best ways to both raise awareness and advocate. When I was in high school, I was one of the few openly queer kids. I struggled to find people with which I felt safe, but the peers who frequently posted showing their support of my community were the ones that I knew I could be myself with. Reposts of political activism or even a colorful visual can go a long way.

As for my fellow community members, not all of us have the access or the environment to allow for blunt displays of our pride. Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways for us to show off our identity. Purchase subtle designs with your pride flag or from queer-owned businesses. A great way to find them is by looking through social media. A quick type into the search bar can introduce you to some great new brands with fresh, unique pieces perfect for pride. 

If money is an issue or you’re unable to make purchases on your own, no worries, I’ve got you covered. You can show your pride in smaller ways instead. If you like to paint your nails, pick your flag’s colors. Wearing a certain color scheme or accessorizing in accordance with queer fashion is a great way to make use of pieces you already own or try out a new look. Personally, I made a bracelet with my flag’s colors and haven’t gone a day this month without it. I consider it a little piece of pride to take with me everywhere.

Another great way to celebrate, whether you’re an ally or queer, is by supporting LGBTQ+ artists. If you know of any small businesses, buy from them. Look into new musicians or stream your favorites that you know are a part of the community. Don’t be afraid to show them to your friends—some of my favorites are Kali Uchis, Ethel Cain, and Clairo and they will be blasting through my headphones and stereo throughout the whole month.

While pride month is known for its flashy, fun displays of out-and-proud queerness, you can be equally as indulgent in a variety of ways. Some of us might not get to join the bigger events and that’s completely okay. Validation isn’t about being the loudest; it’s about supporting and celebrating when and where it counts. Allyship is about uplifting LGBTQ+ people. If you’re in the community, this is your month to connect with yourself as much as others. Use your voice, stay safe, and have joy-filled pride.