If you can’t make it to Pride this year, here are some other ways to celebrate with the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
It’s that time of year again! Summer is when Canada celebrates the 2SLGBTQ+ community with Pride festivities from coast to coast to coast. Many Pride events take place between June and August and may feature parades, festivals and more. But sometimes it can be difficult to attend these events in person.
There are many different reasons why you may not be able to attend a Pride event (if that’s something you’re interested in doing). Maybe you identify as 2SLGBTQ+, but you live in an area with no Pride celebrations. Maybe you identify as 2SLGBTQ+, but you’re not ready to come out and attend your first Pride event. Or maybe you want to be an ally to the 2SLGBTQ+ community, but you’re just not sure how to get started. The COVID-19 pandemic is also affecting how some communities in Canada are able to acknowledge Pride and host in-person activities right now.
There are lots of ways to get involved, even if you can’t attend a parade or festival. Here are some alternative (or extra!) ways to show your solidarity with the 2SLGBTQ+ community:
- display a Pride symbol (e.g. flag) where people can see it
- join a virtual club, group, team and/or meeting at your school or in your community that creates space for 2SLGBTQ+ young people and/or allies (or consider starting your own!)
- consider ways to start a virtual Pride event in your community
- share your experiences as a member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community (if you feel safe to do so)
- celebrate Pride on your social media channels (e.g. give your profile picture or cover photo a themed filter or frame)
- send a 2SLGBTQ+-identified person you know a supportive message and let them know you’re thinking of them during Pride (and all year round)
- invite friends to a virtual movie night and show films by 2SLGBTQ+ creators that represent a range of experiences
- host a virtual dance party and play songs by 2SLGBTQ+ artists and those that celebrate diversity and inclusivity
- organize a virtual fundraiser or virtually volunteer for an organization that supports the 2SLGBTQ+ community
- pick up some 2SLGBTQ+-positive material to learn about 2SLGBTQ+ history and the historical and ongoing treatment of 2SLGBTQ+ people
- get involved in advocating for 2SLGBTQ+ rights
You can also check out some organizations across Canada to get involved with:
However you’re able to celebrate Pride, it’s important to know that your participation matters. Pride reminds the world that there’s acceptance and support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. It’s a time to show inclusion, demonstrate equality and act in solidarity with others.
