Keeping Pride Alive: Nurturing Authenticity Year-Round

The end of June can mark a bittersweet reminder for the LGBTQ+ community. As Pride month ends, so do many of the events, festivals and intentional expressions of support and celebration that are shown towards our community. These events are more than just parties where LGBTQ+ folks come together for a good time. They are Pride festivals that promote visibility, fundraisers that support advocacy and awareness, and community events that don’t just tell us we belong, they show us. This type of connection and support doesn’t always come year-round, but that doesn’t mean the celebration ends as we enter into the month of July. As we turn the page into a new month, it’s important to reflect on the many ways that our pride, identities, and sense of belonging maintain value every day of the year. 

Although pride is often loudest or most visible during June, pride has always been more than parades, festivals and rainbow flags. The privilege that many of us have to experience pride was never handed to us. Pride was fought for by countless brave individuals, with hope in their hearts and dreams that one day no child or adult would be told that the world is better off without them simply because of an identity that they hold. At its core, pride is a revolutionary act of resistance, self-love, and authenticity. For many, pride represents the joy that comes when we live freely and openly as our full serves. It serves as a constant reminder that we all deserve to take up space, exactly as we are.

image source: https://www.selfloverainbow.com/lgbtq-self-care-for-pride-month/

As fun and meaningful as these June Pride celebrations are, every month must come to an end. Many people experience a greater sense of connection, with others and themselves, when celebrating Pride month. For some, the shift in visibility can mean that these feelings of self-acceptance, joy and connection, may turn to sadness or isolation as folks are forced to return to environments where they feel less seen or understood. While it’s understandable to feel alone as Pride month draws to a close, our community remains strong year-round. Your ability to remain present with yourself and your identity is part of what makes Pride more than just a party, but rather, a brave display of authenticity, joy and resilience. 

Pride can look differently for each individual; there is no right or wrong way to come out, live authentically or to celebrate pride. Existing in an environment where one can accept themself and celebrate the person that they are supports overall mental wellbeing and promotes positive emotional health. Authenticity can create opportunities for stronger self-confidence, healthier relationships and further alignment with personal values. Just as growth rarely happens all at once, pride in oneself is often a gradual, and sometimes lifelong, process.  

image source: https://afsp.org/lgbtq-mental-health-and-suicide-prevention/

There are many ways to continue the celebration and hold pride in your heart year-round. Many support groups, LGBTQ+ organizations and community events continue after June. Seek out opportunities for connection with events and groups that foster community and belonging for LGBTQ+ folks. Find time to develop and nurture relationships in your life that feel affirming of your identity. Remind yourself that pride doesn’t have to be loud or public. Sometimes, it can be just as meaningful to celebrate small acts of self-acceptance by using affirming language, setting boundaries, showing yourself compassion or intentionally choosing to embrace and love the unique identity that you possess. Reflect on moments where you felt most like yourself during Pride month and consider how you could carry some of these experiences or feelings with you into your everyday life. Lastly, consider how you can further the revolution of pride through advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, inclusion and understanding throughout the year. 

As June turns to July, and many take down their rainbow flags and shift their focus to other areas of their lives, let this blogpost serve as a reminder to continue carrying forward the lessons, affirmations and connections that you experienced during Pride month. Pride isn’t measured by how visible you are or how you choose to celebrate your identity. Rather, it’s about honoring your experiences in ways that feel safe, meaningful and authentic. You deserve support, community and love every month of the year, not just during Pride month. 

If you are navigating questions about identity, self esteem, relationships or mental health, therapy can provide a supportive space for growth and exploration. Reach out to our Therapeutic Counseling and Consulting team to learn more about our LGBTQ+ affirming counseling services.