In our regular mental health slot, a few words on Pride month, and the work that still needs to be done.
Happy Pride Month. That time of year again where companies all around the world are updating their logos to include rainbows in an effort to look accommodating and further their branding/product sales. Quite the trend.
Oh, how the cliches dazzle throughout June.
Yet it isn’t all rainbows, is it?
We are still facing a world that is not entirely as welcoming, accepting, or safe as we would wish it to be, in 2025. The cynicism behind companies updating their logo and flying the vibrant flag is valid as many of those same companies aren’t the allies they pretend to be.
For one month a year the LGBTQIA+ community is highlighted as a way to validate our existence and right to be ourselves… all while people cry about ‘why there is no straight pride’ and demand to know why we ‘shove it in people’s faces’.
“Happy Pride Month” is complicated – it is an annual event that focuses on celebrating existence without truly acknowledging the fight, the demonisation, and the abuse we still have to deal with every day. It is a month where our pride is – and should be – visible and relevant. But it is also a month in which we are forced to remember how hard previous generations fought and were persecuted to give us the rights and freedom we currently have… and a month in which we are acutely aware of how much work still needs to be done.
It is not a happy month for anyone who is living in fear of their life because of their gender or sexual orientation. There are countless people still trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in. Many others are still deeply closeted, either by choice or necessity because their current situation isn’t a safe environment.
I recently wrote an article aimed at supporting and recognising the trans community after a significant legal ruling cast a shadow over their identity.
This is a similar piece for the LGBTQIA+ community at large.
This can be the best month of the year for many, and it can be the worst for a lot. But know that you are more than just one month, a rainbow flag, and a local parade. Whether you are out and proud about who you are, or whether you are still figuring things out, you are absolutely valid and valued members of society.
You have every right to be your most authentic self, because you are a human and you are unique. For every hater out there, there are many more people who are loving you for exactly who you are.
The fight will continue for a long time, but together we are strong and we will get through it.
As always, we try to make this site a safe space where you are accepted for who you are as long as you love movies, television, and Pedro Pascal. You are all welcome here.
And please look into any organisations that you may be able to support, or who you may need support from. There are many, all around the world.
And to all our true allies; we love you, too. But please understand that we’re under a month-long spotlight that isn’t always welcome. Be patient with us if we struggle, and please make yourself known as a safe person, where possible.
