It’s a celebration of life and it’s our community. It’s about all of the beautiful identities in and around San Luis Obispo County. There’s a lot happening this month locally, and many committed organizations are hosting events. Here are five ways you can make an impact this month!
- Shop LGBTQ+
Did you know that there are LGBTQ+ owned businesses in and around SLO? One way of showing your support is financially. While we always support showing off your support for the community, keep an eye on where your proceeds are going (many companies donate Pride Month revenue to worthy causes, but others do not). This way, you don’t have to worry about where your money is going—you can feel confident your Pride purchases are going directly to the LGBTQ+ community itself. Support equality with your pocketbook.
- Share you story
Do you know someone or do you have a story about your own related to your experience with Pride month? There are many people who feel more empowered when you share your story. Take the opportunity this summer, with more time on your hands, to post something on social media or share in your local community. You can help by sharing your own experiences, the experiences of friends and family. Sharing tells other people they are not alone.
- Volunteer with local organizations
Show you care by reaching out to local advocacy groups and non-profits! Volunteering is simple and immediate and it creates change in realtime. It can be as basic as answering phones, putting stamps on envelopes or cleaning up an organization’s office space. Time is money and giving your gift of time is worth a lot.
- Show your solidarity
Small gestures of visible ally-ship can mean a lot. Wear a rainbow flag or a pin or distribute literature. Display a pride flag on your lawn, business, or other areas of your community. Use pride-themed backgrounds on your computer and decorate your desktop with colorful pride-themed items. You can use your own physical space to
signal support. We are a visible culture so make sure your encouragement can be seen.
- Know the issues
It’s important to be informed. Information is coming out all the time and readily available online. Do your research and look for facts. When you encounter LGBTQ+ people in your community, listen empathetically and ask lots of questions. The more you know, the more you can help. Participate by being aware of and digesting the most up-to-date knowledge.
Now go out and celebrate. Remember more than anything this is about celebrating. Diversity and inclusion go hand in hand. Know your summer will feel better as you include and advocate!
For more information check out:
The Gala Pride & Diversity Center 1060 Palm Street. www.galacc.org
Tranz Central Coast 1060 Palm St. www.tranzcentralcoast.org
SLO Pride Events May 31st and June 1st Fremont Theater Doors 6pm Show 7pm 18+ www.slopride.com