June is Pride Month, which means that cities all across the world are going to be throwing an array of events to celebrate. While Pride might conjure up images of colorful parades and thumping music, there are actually many different ways to celebrate. If you are looking to add a bit of meaning to the event, then you might be curious about the most significant ways that people celebrate in June. Supporting the community is an amazing way to get started. It allows you to directly interact with others while making positive changes.

A Learning Experience

First, educating yourself can be a great way to begin the process. If you identify as a member of the LGBTQ community, then you most likely know certain details about its history. Still, there are many popular misconceptions surrounding big events that changed the direction of LGBTQ rights. The Stonewall riots, for example, took place over the course of several days in the summer of 1969. It was a reaction to the violent treatment that law enforcement had started using on members. Tired of the unfair actions, the community struck back.

Though the riots were violent and destructive, they were some of the most important events to draw attention to the plight of the community in America. Many people today believe that it was white gay men who took the initiative with these riots. This misconception was furthered when Hollywood released the film “Stonewall,” depicting the riots as the idea of white men. In truth, the movement was begun by trans people of color, specifically Marsha P. Johnson. As a way to celebrate this month, give yourself a history lesson on Ms. Johnson’s importance to history and civil rights. 

Money Talks

Another excellent way to celebrate Pride month is by giving back to the community. Though having passion and conviction is important when it comes to paving a better road to tomorrow, it is impossible to get anything done without the right budget. Due to the strong opposition that members of the LGBTQ community have been met with over the years, homelessness and drug addiction are very common among younger members. This has led to LGBTQ shelters and community centers being opened in cities across the world.

Unfortunately, funding for these centers is not usually the best. In fact, there are countless places across the world that have closed their doors because of a lack of money. If you want to do something meaningful for your community, giving your money to the right cause can be invaluable. Look into the centers in your area and see how to go about making a donation. You might even want to get more involved and begin organizing events to fundraise or bring together members of the community in positive ways.

Show Support

Donating your money can be a great way to help the community, but you can also use your money in other ways. Supporting businesses in your area that are owned by LGBTQ individuals can also help. If there are no stores in your area owned by LGBTQ individuals, look up which chain stores are LGBTQ-friendly. Some businesses are more accepting than others, especially when it comes to large corporations. Do your homework so you know where to spend your money and where to avoid.

You do not need to go out and march in a parade to celebrate Pride Month. Focus your attention on meaningful gestures like donating to a local shelter or patronizing the right businesses. By taking small steps like researching important historical happenings related to the LGBTQ community, you will be able to find new levels of importance to the events of the month.