At Illustrated Ministry, we celebrate the expansive image of God in everyone, everywhere, ALL YEAR LONG. So it’s no surprise we love to amplify our celebration during Pride Month.
We also recognize many things can make it challenging (or even impossible) to participate in parades, protests, or other community Pride events: social anxiety, sensory sensitivity, medical conditions, unsupportive families, transportation issues, work schedules, travel plans—the list goes on!
So we compiled some of our favorite ways to share love and pride this month that anyone can do from your phone, tablet, or computer.
1. Check out our YOU ARE LOVED collection
Yes, I know. This first one is a shameless plug for our happy, love-filled rainbow products, but can you blame us? With these products, you can share love and pride wherever you go. So slap a sticker on your laptop, pin a button to your bag, or hang a flag in your window!
2. Stay engaged with the news
It’s important to say informed about what is happening in spaces around you (especially concerning the LGBTQIA+ community). It’s also important to take care of yourself because the bottomless pit of doom-scrolling can be all too enticing. Check out this article from the American Psychological Association for some ways to manage “headline stress.”
3. Reach out to your loved ones
Pride Month can be a confusing time—especially for those who aren’t out or have strained relationships with family. Sharing love and pride with a text or phone call to someone you love, could have a tremendous impact.
4. Add pronouns to your social media bios and email signatures
Including pronouns in digital introductions is more than just informative; it shares love and pride by normalizing simple ways to create welcoming and affirming spaces for trans and non-binary communities.
5. Educate yourself
Do you know what LGBTQIA+ stands for? What is the difference between gender identity and sexual orientation? Have you learned the history of the Stonewall Riots? Don’t ask your LGBTQIA+ friends to teach you; use internet resources to teach yourself.
6. Contact your local representatives
What laws, bills, or policies (for or against the LGBTQIA+ community) are bouncing around your local political spaces? Learn more about the issues, then email or call your local representatives—share love, be proud, and let your voice be heard!
7. Read or listen to a book by an LGBTQIA+ author
Reading LGBTQIA+ authors and stories is an important practice not just for allies, but also for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Great stories introduce you to spaces and experiences that can educate and empower you.
8. Share content from LGBTQIA+ creators
Share, repost, duet, stitch, forward, link, and do whatever you need to amplify their voices. Are you unsure who to follow? Check out @IllustratedMin on Instagram or TikTok and see who we follow! That’s a great place to start.
9. Research your faith community
Are you a part of a faith community? If so, scroll through your church or denomination’s website. Do they fully welcome and affirm the LGBTQIA+ community? Was this information easy or hard to find? How does this make you feel?
10. Download our free digital wallpaper
Who doesn’t love a free, rainbow-tastic download to share love and pride wherever you go? CLICK HERE to download a You Are Loved digital wallpaper for all your devices! Then any time you unlock your phone or log onto your computer, you’ll be reminded that you are loved.
