Celebrate Pride Virtually: Engaging in Meaningful Ways This Year

With in-person Pride events facing cancellation this year, it’s important to explore alternative ways to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community. Online gatherings are becoming increasingly popular, and there are several meaningful activities you can engage in to mark this significant occasion.

Start Your Day by Connecting with Nature

Begin your day by taking a moment to connect with nature. As the sun rises, take a moment to look up at the sky and take a deep breath. This simple act can remind you of the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ community. Take a moment to express gratitude and affirm your worth.

Explore LGBT History Through Education

One of the best ways to celebrate Pride is by taking the time to study and learn about the rich history of the LGBTQ community. Use this opportunity to read books about significant moments in history, such as the Stonewall riots, the life of Harvey Milk, the impact of the AIDS crisis, and the founding of the Mattachine Society and Daughters of Bilitis. Many of these events laid the foundation for the community's advancements and struggles. By learning about our past, we can better appreciate the present and work towards a more inclusive future.

Register Voters to Support LGBT Rights

Another crucial way to celebrate Pride is by ensuring that the LGBTQ community has a voice in local and national politics. With the upcoming election being one of the most critical for the community, it is essential to register as many voters as possible. Visit your state or county’s Elections website to learn how to register an individual or assist others in the process. Even though public gatherings are limited, you can still make a significant impact by sending emails to friends and family, sharing relevant links, and encouraging them to register to vote.

Virtual Pride Gatherings: A New Tradition

For those who usually attend Pride events, you might find it comforting to host or participate in a virtual gathering. My husband and I never attend Pride personally, and we opted to create a virtual celebration for ourselves and our two other gay male friends. We will be using platforms such as Skype or Zoom to connect and share our experiences, even though we live in different cities. This format can provide a sense of community and camaraderie, making the experience feel more like a traditional Pride celebration.

Conclusion

While in-person Pride events may be limited this year, there are still many ways to celebrate and engage with the LGBTQ community. Start your day with a moment of gratitude, explore LGBT history through education, register voters to ensure your voice is heard, and consider hosting a virtual gathering with friends. These meaningful activities can help you honor and celebrate Pride in a fulfilling way.