Celebrating Pride might look a little different to parades and parties this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t show our support for everything LGBTQ+ – this year, we just get to go big AND go home.
The pandemic is having a disproportionate effect on the LGBTQ+ community
The pandemic is having a disproportionate effect on the LGBTQ+ community, that’s why this year more than ever, it’s important for us to show up and be proud. From virtual festivals to movie marathons, here’s how you can still show up and celebrate Pride from home.
The show will go on! Alexa, play Radio Ga Ga.
Attend a virtual festival
Audiences will be in for a feast of fantastical fun as Brighton & Hove’s infamous annual Pride festival goes digital for the first time. We Are FABULOSO will be streamed live from a studio in Brighton across Pride weekend, 31st July – 2nd August. Featuring cabaret, comedy, game shows, inspiring activists, exclusive performances and archive footage, you can join in the colourful celebrations wherever you are.
Stock up on your LGBTQ+ reads
Books have a wonderful way of reminding us that we’re not alone; they encourage us to listen, connect and grow. With that in mind, Pride is the perfect time to diversify your TBR pile and champion the amazing authors and characters continuing to amplify the LGBTQ+ experience.
Bake some Pride-themed snacks
Rainbows for breakfast lunch and dinner.
Have a Pride-themed movie night
From feel-good comedies to eye opening documentaries, host a movie night at home or set up an outdoor cinema in your garden. If there are too many people to invite, or you’re unable to plan a socially-distanced Pride movie marathon, why not host a remote movie night with Netflix Party, instead? Add Moonlight, Call Me By Your Name, Milk and Imagine Me & You to your viewing schedule immediately.
Show up for your friends
One of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Pride is to be an ally. Pride can stir all kinds of complex emotions, particularly for those who aren’t out, or who have recently come out during lockdown. Send your friends a message, check in on them and do anything you can to make sure they feel seen and understood. A quick text or video call can go a long way.
Put in the work
Pride is so much more than rainbows and glitter, it’s a political event steeped in queer history, and what better way to pay tribute to the activists who stood up and fought for radical change and LGBTQ+ rights than by reading and learning about their stories. Whether you’re a member of the community or an ally, use this as a time to remember the protest as well as the party and learn the history.
Decorate your home
Balloons, garlands, shimmer curtains, feather boas, there’s no holding back when it comes to Pride party decor. Fly. That. Flag. We were particularly inspired by Zoe’s rainbow balloon arch!
Donate to LGBTQ+ charities and organisations
There are hundreds of LGBTQ+ charities making a huge difference to the lives of gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning teens and adults. From providing access to emergency support to advocating for legislative change and preventing homelessness, these organisations need our financial support to continue their mission.
Make some colourful cocktails
Cocktail or mocktail, raising a glass and sippin’ on something colourful is a house rule.
