June is PRIDE MONTH!
EngErotics works to celebrate Pride every month. We strive to be inclusive of all individuals consistently, use gender-neutral terms, and treat everyone as equals.
LGBTQIA+
You have seen this abbreviation, possibly shortened as LGBT.
Do you know what each letter stands for?
- L: lesbian
- G: gay
- B: bisexual
- T: transgender (*does not denote sexual orientation) or two-spirit
- Q: queer or questioning
- I: intersex (*does not denote sexual orientation)
- A: asexual
- +: umbrella symbol to represent the all-encompassing ranges of sexuality and gender identity
But wait… there’s more!
There are endless possibilities for gender identities, sexual preferences, and personal expression!
There is also no limit to the amount of representation one person or community can have.
Check out this article by the NY Times that lists out other gender identities and sexual orientations with brief descriptions of each.
Do you know the Genderbread Person?
Say goodbye to the Gingerbread MAN, we are gender-neutral!
The Genderbread Person is a helpful guide to explain the differences and spectrums of gender identity, gender expression, attraction, and biological sex.
Ways you can celebrate Pride Month (every month!)
Continue to learn and educate yourself
The History Of Pride Month And What It Can Teach Us About Moving Forward Today
Keep being an Ally! Your support and advocacy helps create and maintain safe spaces for all.
Attend a Pride parade!
Join Others
LGBTQIA+ Professional and Student Associations lists LGBTQIA+ associations that are often needing and looking for people like you! You may even find a dream job opportunity!
The Trevor Project is a non-profit organization that focuses on LGBTQIA+ suicide prevention.
Volunteer
Research locally! You may have a nearby LGBTQIA+ organization that you can volunteer at to support your local community.
Be aware of your own biases.
Be open-minded. Allow others to challenge your way of thinking. Remember that each individual has their own preferences, opinions, and thoughts.
Remember: People don’t belong in BOXES
Stereotypes and societal expectations limit the potential of others. Attempting to categorize and label individuals does not facilitate the safe space that Pride advocates.
To Learn More:
Articles:
- Coming Out: Living Authentically as Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual+
- Intersex people face high rates of discrimination and stigma
Book Recommendations:
- The ABC’s of LGBT+
- Pride: an inspirational history of the LGBTQ+ movement
- Real Queer America: LGBT Stories from Red States
- Queer (In)Justice: The Criminalization of LGBT People in the United States
Guidance For Parents and Children
Articles:
- What is LGBT Pride?
- Talking to Your Child About What It Means to Identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender (LGBT)
- Tips for Parents of LGBTQ Youth
