June 2023 – Pride Month

Greeting readers! 

Pride Month is an annual celebration in June to honor and support the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a time for people to unite, support, and celebrate diversity and equality. This month-long event is more than just a celebration; it’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about important issues that affect the LGBTQ+ community. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of Pride Month and how YOU can be a Prevention Partner to support youth health.

Pride Month began to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising, a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. The Stonewall Uprising is considered to be the beginning of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States. To learn more about Pride Month’s history, look at last year’s blog post on Pride Month! 

Pride Month has since become a worldwide celebration of LGBTQ+ rights and identity. It’s an opportunity to recognize the contributions of the LGBTQ+ community and to promote equality and acceptance for all. According to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 60% of LGBTQ+ Americans say that society has become more accepting of them over the past decade. However, much work must be done to ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

One of the biggest challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community is the high rate of suicide among youth. According to the Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers. This staggering statistic highlights the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ youth and promoting mental health resources. It’s important to remember that everyone deserves to feel safe and supported, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Here’s how YOU can be a Prevention Partner:

There are many ways to support the LGBTQ+ community and promote youth health during Pride Month and beyond. Here are some things you can do:

  • Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community. Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts that explore these issues. The more you know, the better equipped you will be to support others.

  • Be an ally: Stand up for the rights of LGBTQ+ people. Speak out against discrimination and harassment. Be a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth who may be struggling.

  • Support LGBTQ+ organizations: Many organizations work to support the LGBTQ+ community. Consider donating your time or money to these organizations to help them continue their essential work.

  • Promote mental health resources: Encourage LGBTQ+ youth to seek help if they struggle. The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth. Share these resources with anyone who may need them. 

As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s important to remember that the work of promoting LGBTQ+ health and well-being is ongoing. By raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and advocating for equal access to healthcare, we can create a world where all young people can thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.