If you can’t make it to Pride this year, here are some other ways to celebrate with the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
It’s that time of year again! Summer is when Canada celebrates the 2SLGBTQI+ 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 2SLGBTQI+, but you live in an area with no Pride celebrations. Maybe you identify as 2SLGBTQI+, but you’re not ready to come out and attend your first Pride event. Or maybe you want to be an ally to the 2SLGBTQI+ community, but you’re just not sure how to get started.
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 2SLGBTQI+ community:
- display a Pride symbol (e.g. flag) where people can see it
- join a club, group, team and/or meeting at your school or in your community that creates space for 2SLGBTQI+ young people and/or allies (or consider starting your own!)
- consider ways to start a Pride event in your community
- share your experiences as a member of the 2SLGBTQI+ 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 2SLGBTQI+-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 movie night and show films by 2SLGBTQ+ creators that represent a range of experiences
- host a dance party and play songs by 2SLGBTQI+ artists and those that celebrate diversity and inclusivity
- organize a fundraiser or volunteer for an organization that supports the 2SLGBTQI+ community
- pick up some 2SLGBTQI+-positive material to learn about 2SLGBTQI+ history and the historical and ongoing treatment of 2SLGBTQI+ people
- get involved in advocating for 2SLGBTQI+ 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 2SLGBTQI+ community. It’s a time to show inclusion, demonstrate equality and act in solidarity with others.
