This post was written by Peter Andrew Danzig (they/them), Director of Training & Capacity Building for the Mayor’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Peter identifies as a Latnix, GenderQueer person with an invisible disability.

June is national Pride month, a month dedicated to the awareness, celebration, and advocacy for LGBTQIAA+ individuals. In the Mayor’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, we work closely with the Mayor’s Office of LGBT Affairs to advance equity for LGBTQ+ people in Philadelphia. 

Most often, in June, residents regularly see pride flags posted in windows, parades, and special events. While this is certainly an important part of celebrating our community, it is exactly that—only a part. As we emerge from the pandemic, with the opportunity to consider change—systemically and within ourselves— please consider what Pride means for our LGBTQ+ residents as we showcase the important and strategic work that lies ahead of us. 

Here are some ways to advocate, serve, and support marginalized LGBTQ+ people in Philadelphia, whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or not:

• Celebrating our community (the parades and special events that have become common).
• Respecting people’s choice to stay closeted for their safety.
• Remembering LGBTQ+ people live everyday lives, as we all do, and are part of our community.
• Building and having a community presence.
• Loving yourself for who you are, beyond identifying as LGBTQ+. We are all complex human beings, deserving celebration.
• Recognizing that many have survived the hardships of fighting for equal rights.
• Being accepted, respected, and seen as our authentic selves, in the workplace, home, and community.
• Honoring those who have paved the way for fighting for equal rights, especially Black trans elders.
• Protecting trans communities, and considering housing security for trans youth.
• Validating, including, and elevating LGBTQ+ voices in your workplace, home, community, or partnerships.

While this list is not exhaustive, it provides ideas on ways we can support our LGBTQ+ friends, family, and residents. 

For more information on special events and Pride programming from the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, please visit the Office of LGBT Affairs blog post about celebrating Pride throughout June in Philadelphia! While you’re there, sign up for the Office’s newsletter to learn about our efforts year round! 

On behalf of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, we wish everyone a safe Pride month. Be authentically you!