If this is the first time you’re celebrating pride, either as an ally or as a recently self-discovered queer individual, there are a few things you should know before you start celebrating. More than partying and attending events, it is also about educating yourself on why LGBTQ+ identities are valid and the people who have battled and worked so hard to make it possible for sexual and gender diversity to thrive in today’s world. Here are some of the things you should know if you want to make the most of your first Pride Month.
Educate Yourself
Firstly, it is important to educate yourself on LGBTQ+ identities, a bit of history, and why Pride Month continues to be such a big thing in many places across the globe. While from the outside, the LGBTQ+ community may seem all rainbows and bright colors, the truth is that there is a whole spectrum of identities, and all of them are equally valid. Be sure to immerse yourself a bit in the world of queer identities and what makes people identify the way they do—or maybe even what the acronym means (which, for the record, stands for Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgenders/Transsexuals, and Queers; the plus is to include everyone else who might not prefer those labels).
Be Informed about Pride Celebrations in your Area
Pride Month allows communities to hold events. Even if you’ve never seen Pride celebrations before, it is very likely that your area has some form of festivity, be it smaller or bigger. Hence, it is a good idea to do some research and find out what people are up to so that you can attend the celebrations and enjoy pride along with people who might share the same life experience as you. It can be a parade, perhaps a party, or maybe even a seminar. Whatever it is, be sure to attend and keep an open mind.
If you prefer to experience the nightlife and would like to party for a bit, then you can go on a pride bar crawl and meet some of the best LGBTQ+ pubs in your area. You will be able to make new friends, enjoy nice drinks and maybe even dance for a while with people like you. Gay bars tend to welcome both allies and queer individuals. These are safe spaces where you can be yourself and just let go, as other people are just trying to have a good time, too.
Pride is Better with Friends
While there’s nothing wrong with celebrating Pride alone, it is very much recommended that you celebrate it with friends. You will surely meet new people, but going along with a friend will make you feel safer and you will also have someone with whom you will share memorable moments that may last for a lifetime. Plus, you won’t have to feel out of place and lonely since you have someone who knows you and shares part of your life with you.
Celebrate Pride Your Way
There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate pride. You can do it in any way you like. If you prefer to stay at home, invite a couple of friends, and maybe watch movies together instead of attending parades or bars, that is perfectly fine. After all, Pride Month is about acceptance and self-love. You don’t have to do things you don’t want in order to celebrate it and make it memorable. You can always stay in your comfort zone and plan a pride celebration that works for you and your personality.
Conclusion
Pride Month is a yearly reminder that queer people exist and that all identities matter and are equally important. In the words of Lady Gaga, “No matter gay, straight, bi, lesbian or transgender life,” you can have a celebration that works for you and allows you to celebrate self-love, acceptance, and LGBTQ+ history either on your own or with your friends.
