As Pride Month draws to a close, whilst the the vibrant colours of Pride flags are still flying, it’s a timely reminder to reflect on what Pride truly means for LGBTQ individuals —and how we can extend our support to the LGBTQ+ community beyond the parades and festivities of ‘Pride Month’. 

What Pride Means 

Pride is more than a celebration; it’s a movement rooted in resistance, resilience, and recognition. It commemorates the Stonewall Riots of 1969, when members of the LGBTQ+ community stood up against discrimination and police brutality. Today, Pride has evolved to both a joyful celebration of identity and a powerful call for equality, inclusion, and justice. 

How We Can Support LGBTQ+ Community 

Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is an ongoing commitment. Here are a few ways everyone can make a difference: 

  • Educate Yourself
    Take time to learn about the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of LGBTQ+ people. Share what you learn with friends, family, and colleagues to foster understanding and empathy. 
  • Be an Ally
    Stand up against discrimination and microaggressions. Use your voice to support LGBTQ+ rights in your workplace, community, and online spaces. 
  • Amplify LGBTQ+ Voices
    Share stories, art, and achievements from within the community. Celebrate diversity and challenge stereotypes. 
  • Support LGBTQ+ Organisations
    Donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word about the vital work being done by LGBTQ+ charities and advocacy groups. 

Where to Find Support and Resources 

If you or someone you know needs support, or if you want to learn more about how to help, here are some fantastic UK-based organisations: 

  • Stonewall
    www.stonewall.org.uk
    A leading charity for LGBTQ+ rights, offering resources, campaigns, and advice. 
  • Galop
    www.galop.org.uk
    The UK’s LGBTQ+ anti-abuse charity, providing support for those who have experienced hate crime, domestic abuse, or sexual violence. 
  • Mermaids
    www.mermaidsuk.org.uk
    Supporting transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse children, young people, and their families. 
  • Sparkle
    www.sparkle.org.uk
    The national transgender charity, known for the annual Sparkle Weekend—the world’s largest free-to-attend celebration of gender diversity. 

Pride Is a Year-Round Commitment 

While Pride Month is a highlight, true allyship means showing up every day. Let’s continue to champion equality, celebrate diversity, and create safe, inclusive spaces for everyone. 

Happy Pride! 

At Hope After Harm we love working with welcome volunteers from a diverse range of backgrounds, whoever you are and wherever you are from please do get in touch to find about how you can be part of what we do –  e would value the lived experiences of more LGBTQ+ individuals within our organisation, as volunteers, mentors and staff members.