How to use your time, energy and wallet
CREDIT: @courtneyahndesign via Instagram
Since the Stonewall Uprising of June 1969, this month has been a time to honor, encourage and fight for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people. Celebrated across the country, Pride is more than just companies changing their social media profiles to the rainbow flag. It is a designated time to acknowledge LGBTQIA+ history and move together toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
This is Rowdy Magazine’s official guide to Pride 2022; how to use your time, energy and wallet in a way that is meaningful and impactful.
Time
This month, Pride events will take place across the country — from 1,000-person marches and benefit concerts to drives and community outreach events. There are countless options to attend in person or even virtually.
Historically, the Gainesville Pride Parade is in October, but the Pride Community Center of North Central Florida (PCCNCF) continues to hold meetings, movie nights and other festivities during the month of June.
This link will show you a list of virtual Pride events.
This link will show you when Pride events are happening in cities across Florida.
Energy
It’s easy to post an infographic on your Instagram story or share whatever Harry Styles’ pride tribute will be. With the influx of social media activism, the line has blurred between what is performative and what is authentic advocacy. One of the best (and most engaging) ways to expose yourself to resources, community and influences is through following social media accounts.
@mattxiv / Matt Bernstein
Account that posts factual, research-based and visually captivating infographics.
@sarah.epperson / Sarah Epperson
Queer artist with multiple sclerosis who advocates for accessibility within health practices and causes like access to menstrual products and reproductive rights.
@jakewesleyrogers / Jake Wesley Rogers
Musical artist with amazing style and the most uplifting words of wisdom.
Wallet
Organizations such as the following are a great place to donate your money (or time through volunteering).
A national crisis treatment and suicide prevention organization that provides a 24-hour hotline for struggling LGBTQIA+ youths.
Named in honor of the icon, the institute protects and defends the rights of Black transgender people by aiming to “elevate, support, and nourish their voices.”
An advocacy and defense group that aids legal cases and fights for LGBTQIA+ rights.
Additionally, shopping at LGBTQIA+-owned companies is a way to show direct support — and score some really cool new items.
Niche and nostalgic fragrances and candles with unique scents like Sneakerhead and Dark Ride (captures the smell of water rides such as Pirates of the Caribbean).
Cruelty-free makeup and skincare designed for all gender expressions and skin tones.
Home decor, zero-waste kits, knickknacks, the famous “the future is female” tee: Otherwild has anything and everything; with most of it under $25!
At the end of the day, Pride is more than just parades, donations and infographics. It’s also more than just the month of June. It is about celebrating and standing up for LGBTQIA+ people every day of the year. Regardless of your orientation and regardless if you’re still figuring it out, know that your friends at Rowdy support and love you today, tomorrow and every single day of the year. So, from our home to yours, happy Pride!
Alex Mowrey is an Online Writer at Rowdy Magazine. She's a big fan of rice krispies treats, Ikea, and complex female characters!