As many have no doubt seen via social media and platforms such as Facebook and Linked in, rainbow flags are dominating the landscape in a celebration of Pride Month, which goes throughout the whole of June in the United States. Pride month has a tradition and history rooted in activism for trans and LGBTQ+ rights, going back to the Stonewall Riots. It is heartwarming to see a visible outpouring of support for this marginalized community, especially from corporations who are sincere in their advocacy and support and not simply engaging in pinkwashing. But celebrating ones LGBTQ+ identity, or being a staunch ally, can and should happen at any time during the year. Below are a few suggestions on showing Pride in June and beyond.
- Donate to causes and organizations that support and uplift the LGBTQ+ Community.
- There are a number of organizations focusing on issues that are particular to the LGBTQ+ community, from mental health, to trans rights, to supporting LGBTQ youth. The work is being done at the local and national level and it is never too late to support.
- Educate yourself on the basics of LGBTQ+ history and issues.
- It’s never too late to delve deeper into learning about the LGBTQ+ community and how to be an advocate or Ally. The Safe Zone Project is a good launching place to learn terms and access a bevy of resources from articles, to videos that can deepen your knowledge of LGBTQ+ issues.
- Advocate for LGBTQ friendly policies locally and nationally.
- There has been a lot of progress in creating equity for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Just last June the Supreme court issued a decision that extended protections from workplace discrimination to include sexual orientation and gender identity, thanks to Aimee Stephens. But this year has seen an alarming rise in anti-trans legislation, proving that the work of advocacy is never finished. This handy guide from USA.gov gives info on how to connect with your local and state representatives if you are a citizen of the United States.
- Think about what you can do in your own workplaces and communities to be more inclusive of LGBTQ+ identities.
- Support the creation of employee resource groups, re-examine policies to ensure they are inclusive and friendly to LGBTQ+ folks, counter microaggressions in the moment, and consider using more inclusive language like partner instead of wife/ husband. Here are more ways to promote inclusivity in the workplace.
