Our Midlife Moms’ Guide to Pride: Understand, Celebrate & Support
This week we wanted to take a deep dive into the world of Pride. Our goal is to help you understand the LGBTQ+ community better, appreciate the history of Pride Month, and learn how to be an effective ally. Join us as we explore the essence of Pride and the power of visibility and advocacy.
Understanding Pride
Pride events are more than just colorful parades and festivities. They play a crucial role in increasing visibility for the LGBTQ+ community, fostering a sense of belonging, and normalizing diverse identities. Pride is a platform for advocating for rights and equality, addressing critical issues such as healthcare access, anti-discrimination laws, and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. It’s also a time to celebrate the rich culture, history, and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community.
The History of Pride
Pride Month traces its origins back to June 1969 at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. The Stonewall Riots, led by brave activists like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, marked a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. These riots sparked the first Pride parade in June 1970, transforming local demonstrations into a global celebration with parades, festivals, and advocacy events.
Decoding the Acronyms
Understanding the LGBTQ+ acronym and its variations, such as LGBTQIAP+, is essential. Each letter represents a specific identity:
- L: Lesbian
- G: Gay
- B: Bisexual
- T: Transgender
- Q: Queer or Questioning
- I: Intersex
- A: Asexual
- P: Pansexual
- +: Includes other identities
This inclusive approach ensures representation for a diverse community with various sexual orientations and gender identities.
New Terms and Inclusivity
As our understanding of gender and sexuality evolves, so does our vocabulary. Terms like cisgender and non-binary are increasingly recognized. Cisgender refers to individuals whose gender identity matches their assigned sex at birth. Non-binary is an umbrella term for gender identities that don’t fit traditional male or female categories. Recognizing and respecting these identities is crucial for fostering inclusivity.
The Role of Allies
Being an ally involves more than passive acceptance. It requires active support and advocacy. Here are some ways to be an effective ally:
- Educate yourself about the LGBTQ+ community’s history and current issues.
- Support LGBTQ+ businesses and organizations.
- Participate in Pride events to show solidarity.
- Use social media to raise awareness and share supportive messages.
- Check out our Episode with Kathy and her journey as a mom of a transgender child.
Celebrating Pride
There are many ways to celebrate Pride:
- Attend local Pride events like parades and festivals — Check out Pride Finder
- Participate in virtual events and workshops.
- Support LGBTQ+ businesses and donate to relevant organizations. Look for “LGBTQ friendly” tags on Google or other sites.
- Use social media to share informative and supportive content.
Conclusion
Understanding the history and significance of Pride helps us contribute to a more inclusive and accepting world. At Chasing Brighter, we believe in spreading love, support, and compassion. We encourage you to educate yourself, support the LGBTQ+ community, and be an active ally. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone.