The holidays are a time for celebration, but for many LGBTQ+ people, it can be a difficult time. Whether you're feeling alone or heading back to your family of origin, it's important to have plans in place to help you cope and get through the season. Here at Queerarchy, we want to make sure that you have some tips to get you through the season.
- Choose inclusive activities. Seek out queer-friendly holiday events and look for queer-friendly holiday events in your area such as tree lightings, holiday parades, and other activities. This could mean attending queer-focused celebrations, LGBTQ+-friendly events, or just getting together with friends who understand your experience.
- Reach out to friends and family for support and connection: The holiday season can oftentimes bring up feelings of loneliness or isolation, particularly for queer individuals. Reaching out to friends and family for support and connection can help to combat these feelings and create a sense of community.
- Practice self-care. Make sure to give yourself some time for self-care and reflection. Find ways to take care of your mind and body during the holiday season by doing something you enjoy, like going for a walk or reading a book. The holidays can be a stressful and emotionally taxing time. Make sure to take time for yourself and practice self-care such as getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking breaks from holiday activities.
- Celebrate the holidays in a way that feels comfortable and authentic: Don’t feel pressure to conform to traditional holiday celebrations. Celebrate the season in a way that feels comfortable and authentically expresses your values. Celebrate with the ones you love and spend time with those who make you feel safe and affirmed.
- Celebrate your identity: Take the time to celebrate your identity and recognize its importance.
If you are an ally here are some tips for a more queer-inclusive holiday.
- Shop at queer-owned businesses.
- Attend queer-focused holiday events and celebrations.
- Donate to queer-focused charities or organizations.
- Show your support by displaying Pride flags, decorations, or apparel in your home or workspace.
- Educate yourself on the history of queerness and its struggles.
- Avoid using gendered language or expressing gendered assumptions (Example: using “she” to refer to someone who is gender non-conforming).
- Respect the pronouns and names of queer people.
- Respect the boundaries of queer people and don’t assume that all queer people are comfortable discussing their sexuality or gender identity.
- Invite queer individuals to holiday gatherings.
To learn more about creating queer inclusiveness click here visit our resource and learning page.
Finally, remember that it's okay to say no. If family members are asking for something that you don't feel comfortable with, you have the right to respectfully decline. Allies, be vigilant and brave, and support your friends and family. Together we make a difference by standing up for ourselves and others.
I hope these tips help make the holidays more inclusive and queer-focused—and just a bit more filled with joy.