She Strengthens

Pride Month: A Call to Action

As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, physical Pride parades may be canceled, but the spirit of unity and solidarity remains unbroken. This month, we have a unique opportunity to support the LGBTQ+ community, give back, and participate in events that promote love, acceptance, and inclusivity.

Remote Pride Events: Join the Celebration

From the comfort of your living room, you can attend a range of virtual Pride events happening throughout the month. Add them to your calendar and get ready to celebrate diversity and individuality.

A Critical Moment in History

This Pride Month takes on added significance as the LGBTQ+ community stands in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, fighting against systemic racism and police brutality. The origins of Pride Month date back to the Stonewall riots of 1969, led by queer people of color, making this a critical moment to come together and demand justice and equality.

Supporting the Cause: Organizations Making a Difference

Monetary contributions can go a long way in supporting organizations that provide vital resources and services to the LGBTQ+ community. Here are some organizations you can consider:

• Funders for LGBTQ Issues: Working to increase philanthropic resources for LGBTQ+ communities, promoting equity, and advancing racial, economic, and gender justice.
• The Trevor Project: Providing resources and support for LGBTQ+ youth, with a focus on Black queer youth.
• The Transgender Law Center: Changing laws, policies, and attitudes to ensure the safety and well-being of transgender individuals.
• Live Out Loud: Empowering LGBTQ+ youth to lead positive, open, and fulfilling lives.
• GLSEN: Advocating for safe, supportive, and LGBTQ-inclusive K-12 education.
• LGBT Foundation: Offering hotlines, resources, and services for domestic abuse, legal surgery, sexual health, and more.
• Human Rights Campaign: Providing a safe space and resources for the LGBTQ+ community, covering topics like adoption, parenting, and workplace matters.
• True Colors United: Working to end homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth.
• The National Black Justice Coalition: Empowering Black LGBTQ+ individuals and combating racism, homophobia, and HIV/STI stigma.
• The Association of LGBTQ Journalists: Promoting fair and accurate coverage of LGBTQ+ issues and combating workplace bias.

Reading List: Explore the LGBTQ+ Experience

Dive into these non-fiction and fiction books to gain a deeper understanding of the LGBTQ+ movement and queer experience:

• The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle by Lillian Faderman
• Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg
• Gender Trouble by Judith Butler
• Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde
• Fun Home by Alison Bechdel
• Equal Before the Law: How Iowa Led Americans to Marriage Equality by Tom Witosky
• Transgender History by Susan Stryker
• Crip Theory: Cultural Signs of Queerness and Disability by Robert McRuer
• In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado
• Another Country by James Baldwin
• The Right Side of History: 100 Years of LGBQ Activism by Adrian Brooks
• Stand By Me: The Forgotten History of Gay Liberation by Jim Downs
• Beyond Magenta: Transgender Teens Speak Out by Susan Kuklin

Celebrating Strength and Passion

As we navigate these challenging times, let’s come together to celebrate each other’s strengths and passions. By fighting for justice and equality, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.