This year marks the 50th anniversary of PRIDE. Even though you cannot celebrate PRIDE month surrounded by real people, that does not mean virtual celebrations with the LGBTQIA+ community is off the table. Here are five ways you can celebrate PRIDE in quarantine.
1. Virtual LGBTQIA + Play Readings
Every Friday during the month of June, Playbill will host live readings of 4 LGBTQIA+ plays in support of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids on their website. Each Friday show will start with a “pillar” of the Broadway and LGBTQIA+ community introducing the plays and sharing their story. Eleven plays will be performed live throughout the month of June, a list which includes “Masculinity Max” by MJ Kaufman, “On in Two” by Donja R. Love, and “Men From the Boys” by Mart Crowley. Make sure to stay updated on the Playbill website so you can follow your favorite plays and performances.
2. Global Pride
On June 27, there will be a 24/7 live-streamed event, which will feature speeches from Human Rights activists, interactive workshops, and performances from high-profile celebrities. Groups from all over the world are planning to take part in the celebration of the 50th anniversary of PRIDE. Make sure to tune in!
3. Buy some Skittles
Grab some skittles during the month of June for a surprise; all of the packages will be gray, as “only one rainbow matters during PRIDE.” For each package sold, one dollar will be donated to GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation).
4. ABC Performance (June 28)
On June 28, ABC network will air performances headlined by Janelle Monae, Billy Porter, and Dan Levy. ABC is collaborating with NYC PRIDE to broadcast this event on ABC News Live, Channel 7, and the abc7ny website from 12 to 2 PM.
5. Donations
Many LGBTQIA+ artists, businesses, and individuals rely on PRIDE month for donations, so it remains crucial that we continue to donate to organizations that are here to support the LGBTQIA+ community. Even though PRIDE parades can’t be done this year due to the current circumstances, it is especially important that we donate to people in the community who may be struggling in quarantine.
Organizations to donate to during PRIDE:
The Transgender Law Center
Live Out Loud
Human Rights Campaign
True Colors Fund
National Black Justice Fund
InterACT
Health Professionals Advancing LGBT Equality
The Association of LGBTQ Journalists
Drag Queen Storyhour
GLAAD.
Hotlines for struggling LGBTQIA+ youth:
The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564
The Trevor Project: (866)-488-7386
True Colors United: (212)-461-4401
Pride Institute LGBTQ Dependency: (800)-547-7433