Celebrating Pride Safely: A Guide to Finding Joy While Staying Safe
In this article:
Stay safe in groups
Be mindful of substance use
Deciding your own risk and desire levels
Prioritizing physical and mental health
Practicing safe sex
Finding your joy
The queer community has come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. Pride Month allows us to celebrate our progress and stand up for our rights every year. However, it's essential to remember that not all Pride events are created equal. Your physical and emotional safety is a top priority. In this blog post, we'll share tips on how to stay safe and find your joy during this year's Pride festivities. Whether you plan on attending a parade, a concert, or a party, we've got you covered.
Stay in Groups
One of the most important ways to stay safe during Pride is to stay in groups. Traveling with friends or participating in group events reduces the risk of experiencing harm or violence. Designate a buddy or two to stay close to you throughout the day. This way, you can watch each other and have someone to turn to if something feels off. Alternatively, you can cheer them on from afar as they chat up that cutie they were checking out.
Be Mindful of Intoxication
It's tempting to drink or use substances during Pride. Still, it's important to be mindful of your level of intoxication. Alcohol and drugs can impair judgment and reaction time, making it harder to stay aware of your surroundings. Instead of drinking excessively, consider finding other ways to celebrate that won't put you at risk.
Decide Your Risk and Desire Level
It's important to be open to new experiences. Still, you should always feel empowered to say no if something doesn't feel right. This is especially true when it comes to sexual experiences. Before you engage in any sexual activities during Pride, take some time to decide what your risk and desire levels are. Decide beforehand what you're comfortable with and what you're not.
Prioritize Your Physical and Mental Health
Pride can be an emotionally charged event, and it's essential to prioritize your mental health. If you feel overwhelmed or triggered, don't hesitate to take a break if you need to. Make sure to prioritize your physical health as well - stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks as needed.
Practice Safer Sex
During Pride, it's important to get tested for STDs or STIs beforehand and to practice safe sex. Condoms can be a great way to reduce your risk of contracting an STD or STI. If you're unsure about someone's sexual history or feeling uncomfortable, it's important to advocate for yourself and prioritize your health. Remember, you can say no and change your mind anytime. Consent is key. Consider the monkeypox vaccine and prophylactics like Prep and Doxy-Pep for extra support.
Find your joy
Get ready to celebrate love, acceptance, and diversity this Pride Month! Remember to make the most of your experience and have a blast! Whether you're joining a rally or hitting the dance floor, take the time to embrace the unique individuals around you. Pride events are a crucial opportunity to foster a spirit of unity and solidarity, so seize the chance to feel empowered and connected. The key is to stay present in the moment and find your own joy.
Transformative and empowering, Pride is undoubtedly a time to celebrate who you are. However, safety should always come first. This year's festivities will be a success if you prioritize your health and proactively take steps toward safety. By sticking with a group, being responsible about substances, determining your comfort and safety levels, empowering your mental and physical well-being, and practicing safe sex, you can participate in Pride with confidence and joy. Let's make this year's celebration of love and acceptance the best one yet! Remember, your safety and well-being should always come first - take care of yourself and have fun!