Pride is celebrated in June and with it all people. But besides celebrating - normally we would be dancing in our latest kicks at the CSD parades right now - and the rainbow colours, the LGBTQIA+ movement is of course about much more. It's about equality, diversity, inclusion and acceptance.
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, global charity OutRight has been documenting the impact of COVID-19 on LGBTIQIA+ people. This Emergency Fund supports organisations working on the frontline for LGBTIQ communities.
Daina Ruduša, Senior Communications Manager at OutRight Action, fights for the human rights of LGBTQ+ people everywhere. She observes how the virus "exacerbates the vulnerability and marginalisation LGBTIQ communities face every day".
Five steps for supporting the LGBTQIA+ community
Today we want to discuss five simple steps what we can be for and with the LGBTQIA+ community. Together we can create a good environment and a feel-good environment for each other.
1. Show your support
Let's always have each other's backs, stand up for each other and support each other. You can show your support even in the smallest way. Say that you care, that you are not indifferent, like posts, comment, share, discuss and listen. Most importantly, donate time for all of this, and maybe even a little bit of money.
You are welcome to follow the links here and get an idea of the NGOs yourself. ScoopWhoop proposes seven NGOs in India, here you come to the Pride Foundation or also to Workplacepride.
2. Support Businesses
This can definitely get a little tricky. For example, we have to watch out if companies are not just pretending to support the rights of the LGBTQIA+ movement. Also, some companies are progressive on one issue but not on another. Don't be distracted by outward appearances and the Rainbow logo. For more info, check out teenVogue or also newnownext.
Of course, also look for local and small businesses that support the community (on the ground). Put your money on businesses run by LGBTQIA+ people and allies.
After the Diversity Audit, the Sissi Agency has given you a ranking of DAX companies with a focus on LGBTQ+ compiled.
3. Become an echo with a megaphone
Stories are crucial and formative, so let us listen to them carefully and attentively. Because only they give us a glimpse into lives that are different from our own. Every life is, which is why listening is so incredibly important. No one can understand without having experienced it themselves, no matter what we go through. So on the one hand, let us accept the (possible) ignorance of our fellow human beings and give them patience; on the other hand, let us in turn be curious and patient.
This is how we can become compassionate people. Read, listen and share the stories with your loved ones and your platform. Daina Ruduša advises: "It’s ok not to understand – be comfortable being uncomfortable, ask questions, but don’t force people to talk about their identity if they are not comfortable doing so".
4. Do not remain silent when you see or experience injustice
Honesty, openness and communication can be very effective in changing others' minds or at least in engaging in constructive exchange. It becomes difficult for people to hate or reject what they are confronted with at eye level and when there is a face and a person behind something abstract.
But be nice about it. Show the other person as much respect as you would like for yourselves. Be gentle with each other. Encourage people to see new, alternative points of view.
5. Take part in a virtual Pride event
Robbie de Santos says: "This Pride season, it’s important to come together – in our communities, in our schools, workplaces, online and on the streets – to celebrate who we are, celebrate how far we’ve come, and fight for the freedom, equity and potential of every single one of us".
Ruduša recommends: Global Black Pride, World Pride (which also has a strong educational claim) or Can’t Cancel Pride.
Be colourful, be respectful and be who you are!