In case you've been living underneath a bit of a rock, it's Pride Month! We are so excited to celebrate the amazing and beautiful diversity of the LGBTQ+ community, and the fight for equality for all. At Vado Plastic Surgery, we believe in helping patients feel like themselves, which is why we proudly specialize in top surgery and gender-affirming care. Our board-certified surgeons have the privilege of working with many transgender patients throughout Florida.
While many people (especially those outside the community) associate Pride Month with rainbow flags, logos, shirts, and parades, it's important to remember that Pride goes far beyond this. Being an ally should go far beyond simply updating a profile picture.
To celebrate this year's Pride Month, we've put together a few meaningful ways you can be a great ally to the LGBTQ+ community.
Pride Month has been celebrated each June for decades in honor of the Stonewall Riots, which took place on June 28, 1969. These uprisings were a response to violent police raids on lesbian and gay bars in New York and across the country, particularly one night at The Stonewall Inn. The event is widely regarded as a catalyst for the modern gay rights movement.
Today, as legislation and public acceptance continue to progress, Pride often carries a celebratory tone, highlighted by colorful, lively parades around the world.
Whether you're an ally looking to do more, or an LGBTQ+ person seeking to support fellow community members, there are many impactful ways to show your support.
The history of the LGBTQ+ community is rich and complex. Terminology has evolved over time; many historic figures are believed to have been gay; and the fight for equality has spanned generations. Each identity within the community has its own flag, and the colors have specific meanings. Dive into books, websites, podcasts, documentaries, and blogs to expand your understanding. Education is a long-term act of allyship.
Support the community financially by buying from LGBTQ+ owned brands. Whether you're shopping for jewelry, apparel, or home goods, spending power can make a difference for real people and families.
Listening to LGBTQ+ voices matters. While independent research is important, following activists and educators can help you hear perspectives you might not encounter otherwise and stay informed on current issues.
This may seem small, but it helps normalize that you can't determine someone's pronouns at a glance and makes space for those who want or need to share them. It takes seconds and signals respect.
Not everyone is accepting of LGBTQ+ people. As allies, it's vital to challenge homophobia and transphobia when you encounter them—online and in person. Silence can feel like agreement; speaking up shows support.
Consider supporting organizations that provide resources, education, and crisis intervention, such as The Trevor Project. Your time and donations can help change lives.
We'll leave you with this: you can do all of these things all year long! In fact, consistent action is what creates meaningful change. At Vado Plastic Surgery, we are proud to support our LGBTQ+ patients—and LGBTQ+ folks beyond our practice—today and every day.
Now let's go forth and celebrate Pride!
Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons is dedicated to providing each and every one of our patients with quality care and results. If you're considering plastic surgery in Orlando, call us at (407)-377-5438 or fill out our online form to schedule your in-person or virtual consultation at Vado Plastic Surgery!
