June marks the month of Pride! Pride is a time for people in the LGBT community to celebrate their history and their, for lack of a better term, pride! It is usually a time of music, fun and parades. You can do many things during pride month. If you want to see more than what's on this list, go on google or ask a friend!
Learn the History:
Just like with any holiday, it’s important to know where it originated. Google some facts. Watch a documentary. Read a book or LGBT magazine. Look to social media and find out what’s happening now. The best way to learn history is spending five minutes online. Google some keywords like "Stonewall," "Harvey Milk" and "drag performance history."
Watch LGBT Films/TV Shows:
Netflix has a great selection of LGBT films. Ask your friends for some recommendations on their favorites. Logo TV offers many great programs involving the LGBT community. While also looking for films and television shows surrounding LGBT themes, find out if some of your favorite actors and actresses are LGBT.
Pride Weekend Festivals:
Many cities host pride day festivals. Check the internet for dates and special guests appearing at these events. You’ll meet some cool people, learn some new things and see some cool performances. Going to a pride festival will help you learn about how to help the LGBT community in your area. Along with helping the community, you can help your friends by attending these events with them. The best thing an ally of the LGBT community can do, is support the friends that may be looking for support.
Gay Clubs/Bars:
Another way to see the culture and meet cool people is at clubs and bars. Many of these places are considered “safe spaces,” and anyone who is a part or ally of the LGBT community is welcome to visit. Check the internet for some of these LGBT safe spaces and take your friends. The environment is always friendly and fun.
Support an LGBT Charity/Organization/Artist:
Find out about local or national organizations that you can donate to. It doesn’t have to be a large amount. Any amount will assist the community. If you want to support an artist, buy their Eps, attend a concert or like them on Facebook. Let others know what organization you’re assisting and why it’s important to you. You may even get a free sticker or shirt in the process!
Get Tested:
STIs are not exclusive to the LGBT community. It’s important to get tested often even if you aren’t sexually active. It is also important to be honest with your partner if you are sexually active. There are ways to protect from STIs while still having sex. Knowing your status will help you educate yourself and others on safe sex.
Remember: It's not enough to say "I don't mind gay people." To be an ally, you have to be able to help others understand the importance of equality, fairness, acceptance and mutual respect. As a straight ally, you have a privilege in society that many in the LGBT community do not.
