Just because Pride Month is over, doesn’t mean your support of the LGBTQ+ community should end. If you’re looking to join us in celebrating, supporting, and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community year round, here are 3 ways to get started:

1) Volunteer your time: 

• Become a crisis counselor: The Trevor Project offers opportunities to volunteer remotely as a crisis counselor, so you can support LGBTQ+ youth directly, no matter where you live.  
• Volunteer with The Youth Pride Association, which works on the frontlines to support LGBTQ students. All of their volunteer roles are remote and flexible.
• Write an encouraging card to remind LGBTQ+ youth how much they’re loved via Point of Pride.

2) Advocate for inclusive spaces:
Whether you’re a student, community member, or employee, you can advocate the spaces you’re in to be more inclusive. To get started, ask yourself questions, such as:

• Are LGBTQ+ students reflected in our library?
• Do our forms allow people to share the name they use?
• Do we have clear anti-bullying policies?
• Are our events welcoming to everyone? How can we make this space more inclusive?

Advocating doesn’t always mean leading a major campaign. Sometimes it’s as simple as suggesting inclusive language on a sign-up form, encouraging your community to recognize Pride Month, or asking whether community events are welcoming to LGBTQ+ youth and families. Specifically, you can:

• Start a student organization such as Gay Straight Alliance.
• Encourage leaders to adopt inclusive policies.
• Help organize events that celebrate diversity and belonging.
• Vote for legislation that support equality, freedom, and human rights.

3) Educate yourself
If you don’t know something, it’s okay to admit that as you educate yourself and others. Check out the Trevor Project’s Resource Page to learn more. Here are some simple steps you can take 

• When you introduce yourself, use your pronouns; and if someone tells you their name or pronouns, use them consistently. If you’re unsure, politely ask instead of guess. 
• Read books and watch media created by LGBTQ+ people.
• Don’t assume someone’s identity. Avoid questions like, “Do you have a boyfriend?”