Celebrating Pride Without Parties

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, countless events around the world have been postponed or canceled in the name of public safety and health. While it is disappointing to miss out on these events, it is important for us to do whatever we can to help mitigate the impact of this virus to help the world move forward, and, according to the experts, avoiding large gatherings is one of the best ways to do so. For members and allies of the LGBTI community, this means that Pride Month will look quite different than usual.

Pride Month celebrations are iconic for their massive, over-the-top displays, while parades and parties are a staple event of many summer calendars. While we may not be able to gather and celebrate how we usually do, there are still many opportunities to observe and honor the LGBTI community during Pride Month from the safety of your home.

Explore the history of Pride

While Pride may just seem like a fun party to some, its origins are rooted in social justice, protest, and sacrifice. In the early hours of June 28, 1969, New York City’s Stonewall Inn was violently raided by police. In response to this, bar patrons and community members rallied together to protest the blatant targeting and discrimination that was a regular occurrence during that time period.

Trailblazers like Marsha P. Johnson helped organize and lead these people in what became known as the Stonewall Riots, which is largely considered to be the spark that ignited the LGBTI movement in the United States. In 1970, one year after the riots, hundreds of demonstrators marched along Greenwich Village’s Christopher Street — which runs past the Stonewall — in what many consider the first Gay Pride march. While we may not be able to gather like we usually do, we can still highlight and honor the legacy these individuals created for future generations to enjoy. 

Learn more about a segment of the LGBTI community that you’re unfamiliar with

Within the larger LGBTI community, there are several groups with their own unique identity. In addition to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning individuals, there are numerous other communities to acknowledge, understand and support, such as asexual, pansexual, and intersex, to name a few.

We as a community need to acknowledge that Pride is not just for one segment of our community but rather a celebration of the incredible diversity that makes up the entire acronym. If we want to advance, we must put in the time and effort to understand and elevate each other. Everyone deserves to be heard, respected, and welcomed to this community.

Have a candid discussion about the issues within the LGBTI community

There are countless issues within the LGBTI community that often go unaddressed, but this year’s Pride would be a prime time to have a frank conversation about how we can address and remedy them. Problems with racial discrimination, body shaming, social status, and more plague our community but are rarely given the time or attention they deserve. Yes, these discussions can be uncomfortable, but everyone should have the chance to express their concerns so we as a community can work together to develop lasting solutions. If we continue to ignore them, we will never move forward.

Donate to LGBTI organizations

The economic impact of COVID-19 has been profound, and non-profit organizations have certainly not been immune. Since Pride Celebration costs are down (no tickets for events, no need for new clothes, etc.), a great way to show support for the LGBTI community and honor what Pride Month represents would be by donating time or money to an organization that provides vital resources to those who may be struggling now or in the future. Without the services of these organizations, many within our community will not have the assistance they need to succeed.

Celebrate virtually

Thanks to technology, it is easier than ever to connect with our friends and family. This means that you can still celebrate while maintaining safe social distancing measures. You can put together LGBTI trivia, have dance contests, or simply connect and discuss whatever comes to mind. It may look different than the typical celebration, but it is a great way to acknowledge and support Pride Month in a safe, respectful way.

Rather than viewing this year’s Pride as a failure due to a lack of parties, I encourage you to view it as an opportunity to learn or do something new to help elevate and celebrate the LGBTI community. Pandemic or not, there are numerous ways to celebrate Pride that can bring us all together as a community.