Kirsten Phelps 🏳️‍🌈’s Post

Happy Pride, fellow queers and allies! 🏳️🌈🏳️🌈🏳️🌈🏳️🌈 Pride… what a provocative emotion, right? It only makes sense for a community that has been oppressed to find liberation in their authentic selves, and call the movement ‘Pride’. Ever wondered why the rainbow? The rainbow is a significant metaphor which captures the diversity and the vastness of the human spectrum of sexuality and gender. The rainbow is not just a representation of our collective experiences navigating our identities, but a celebration of it. Think about it, a rainbow shines after a storm. Several queer people have weathered storms of their own and shone through the rainbow. There are flags for each identity, like the lesbian flag with hues of orange and purple, or the intersex flag with a circle. The current pride flag: Intersex-Inclusive Progress Pride Flag, was created by Valentino Vecchietti of Intersex Equality Rights UK in 2021. But why a flag? LGBTQIA+ folks often find liberation & community in owning their identity and sharing their true selves with the world through a symbol as powerful as the pride flag. It also allows us to identify queer friendly spaces through such flags! However, as June progresses, we see organisations hop on to the rainbow-coloured bandwagon and seldom does it provide actual help or benefit to queer folks. We love healthy conversations, and we strongly believe that organisations should start with inclusive policies at the workplace. For advertisements and campaigns, use the talents of people from the community. Start where the rainbow begins 🌈 #pridemonth2024 #lgbtqia #allyship

With Pride Month just around the corner, I'm gearing up for the usual wave of hate against the LGBTQ+ community. It's sad that during a time meant to celebrate love and acceptance, we still see so much negativity. So, let’s clear up some common questions that pop up every year: Q: "Where is my straight month?" A: When you're attacked, not allowed to marry the person you love, or scared to travel because you might be killed for being straight, then you can have a straight pride month. Until then, enjoy your everyday acceptance. Q: "Why is it shoved in my face?" A: It’s not. No one is forcing you to join in. You’re just noticing something that isn’t about you for once, and it makes you uncomfortable. Grow up. Q: "No one cares that you're gay, why do you need to go on about it?" A: Actually, people do care—in a bad way. LGBTQ+ folks are still attacked and killed for who they are. That’s why we celebrate and are proud. Get used to it. Q: "LGBTQ+ is against my religion." A: People interpret religion in many ways, and that’s okay! You can still be friendly to people even if you don’t agree with everything about them. No one is forcing you to turn gay. I'll be sure to add to this at the end of Pride, showcasing some of the comments made by some people. Until then, let's have a great month and remember—you don't need to be LGBTQ+ to take part. Come and be an ally and show your support! #Pride #PrideMonth #LGBTQ #LGBT #EqualRights #June

It’s Pride Month once again, which is a month-long celebration of liberation and acceptance for our queer friends who have had a long history of struggle in the fight for their rights. The first World Pride happened in 2000 and is celebrated in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York, USA. To all our queer friends out there, Happy Pride! As the activist and one of the many prominent figures during the Stonewall Uprisings, Marsha Johnson, once said, “No Pride for some of us without liberation for all of us!” Hence, a society’s acceptance (or tolerance) of its queer members is a reflection of its perspective on the universality of human rights. And if you are not queer, that is totally okay. You can still celebrate Pride as an ally. Here are some tips on how to be a good ally: 1. Do not assume a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE) unless otherwise explicitly communicated. 2. Let people identify themselves on their own terms, time, and pace. 3. Be open to listening to the stories of your queer friends even if it can be difficult to relate to their experiences. 4. Use their preferred pronouns and lived names. 5. Be a safe space for them. 6. Raise awareness, disseminate relevant information, and have civil discussions involving LGBTQ+ communities. We can show support for our LGBTQ+ friends and acquaintances by simply celebrating Pride with them and advocating for their rights. #pridemonth #pride #lgbtqia #pride2024 #ally #girlpowertalk #spreadlove #inclusivecommunity #alliesmatter Penned By: Anjo A.

It’s important for me to be an ally not just during Pride Month, but every month, because I believe in a country that doesn’t discriminate and that treats everyone equally. Being an ally means showing up for people, particularly LGBTQ+ people, and demonstrating our support. People have the right to live and work authentically, whatever that may look like for them. I joined the Human Rights Campaign and proudly display their logo on my car to demonstrate my support, but my allyship doesn’t stop there. Love is love. I—and now my children who are 14 and 11—have several friends, loved ones, fellow classmates, colleagues and AFSP board members who identify as LGBTQ+. I want to bring my kids up in a world that not only accepts people for who they are, but also celebrates everyone’s unique traits and differences. I feel like in many ways, we have regressed in this area and it’s so disheartening to see the negativity and not only a lack of acceptance, but active hatred, against people. We all have only one life to live, so why not let others live theirs? There’s no need to judge or to berate or discriminate against someone when it truly doesn’t impact or affect your own life at all. Just be a good and compassionate human. Actively listen, sign petitions that make sense and request equal rights, show up for people and make it known that you do not tolerate hate or discrimination on any level. If we can all start doing more of this, our country and the world would be a far better place. Please take the time to do your part. #PrideMonth #LGBTQ #ally

🌈Why I refuse to stop using the term "Queer."🌈: It’s important to be sensitive to the fact that the word "Queer" was mostly used as a slur for most of the 20th century. Predominantly towards gay men, but it’s closely associated with anti-LGBTQIA+ hate speech in general and is still used as a slur today. Meaning that for some, the term is justifiably triggering to hear and read. However, the term has also been reclaimed by many within the LGBTQIA+ community as a self-descriptor, and this reclamation isn't new - Queer activists started reclaiming the term in the 80s, and "Queer" has a cemented place within the LGBTQIA+ initialism. As someone who identifies as Queer, I find the term best describes who I am, my relationship with my sexual orientation and gender identity, and also my perspectives on heteronormativity. As it simply describes someone who isn’t cis and/or straight, making it quite an open and inclusive label, that also challenges binaries and adherence to strict categories. And I’m part of a community of people who also see themselves as Queer, for their own similar and personal reasons. To invalidate our identity by refusing to use the term "Queer" based on your discomfort is disempowering and dismissive of our experiences, and I refuse to stop using it.  It holds significant and validating importance for me and other Queer people, and it's essential to respect that. However, I am mindful in my usage of the term. By not using it to describe people who aren’t Queer and using the LGBTQIA+ initialism as an umbrella term instead of Queer, to respect those who have a different relationship with the term, which I encourage others to do. Recognising both perspectives is integral to fostering inclusion. Hope this post helps - it marks day 30 of my “30 Days Of Gay” Pride month series🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈 Meaning it’s the final post! Thank you to all who have supported and appreciated this series, it’s been a pleasure to do for Pride Month, and I’ll certainly continue to show up with more content that is hopefully useful, informative, and empowering. #linkedinlearning #inclusion #pride #pridemonth #lgbtq #lgbtqia

Badge Collection 👼 Badges are powerful symbols in the queer community, representing identity, resistance, and solidarity. They allow LGBTQ+ people to express pride and visibility, often in environments where they might feel marginalised. Historically, symbols like the pink triangle, once used to persecute, were reclaimed as symbols of defiance and pride. These small but mighty symbols have played crucial roles in political activism, raising awareness and uniting people around common causes at protests and pride events. Badges stand as reminders of our community’s struggles and achievements, while preserving its rich heritage. We continue to wear badges, and you can even pick some up from our gift shop! 😉 We've been exploring our archive and found some gems! Which one resonates with you? – Alt Text: The image shows four circular buttons or badges, each featuring designs and text related to LGBTQ+ rights and pride. 1. Top left badge: This badge has a white background with a black and pink heart in the centre. The text around the heart reads, "We Want Out In," with "Out" in bold black and "In" in pink. Below, it states, "Clause 25 Paragraph 16." 2. Top right badge: This badge has a white background with a black circle filled with a pink triangle at the top. The text around the circle reads, "Lesbian & Gay Pride '88." 3. Bottom left badge: This badge has a white background with an image of a cherub holding a flag that reads, "Pride 1993." The image is in black and white, with the flag in pink. 4. Bottom right badge: This badge has a pink background with bold black and white text that reads, "Get Up Get Out! Get Even" with "Lesbian and Gay Rights Coalition" written in a smaller font around the edge. The badges are arranged on a bright pink background. – Image From Queer Britain. Badges donated by Lord Michael Cashman. – #queerbritain #lgbtq #lesbian #gay #bisexual #trans #queer

🌈 Protest of Pride Month 🌈 As Pride Month unfolds, it's a time to reflect on the multifaceted significance of this period. For the LGBTQ+ community, including myself, Pride is a powerful reminder of our journey towards visibility, acceptance, and equality. My experiences as a gay man have been marked by both personal and professional encounters with homophobia. From subtle microaggressions in the workplace to overt discrimination in public spaces, these experiences have shaped my resolve to advocate for change. Each instance of prejudice has reinforced the importance of creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive without fear of judgment or reprisal. Pride is undeniably a celebration—a joyous affirmation of our identities and the progress we've made. It's about being able to be ourselves, openly and authentically, without having to hide. However, it's crucial to remember that the origins of Pride are rooted in protest. The Stonewall Riots of 1969 were a defiant response to systemic oppression, igniting a movement that continues to challenge the status quo. While we've made significant strides, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights is far from over. It's a sobering reality that in some parts of the world, being gay is still punishable by death. Rights that have been hard-won can also be easily lost, which is why we must remain vigilant and proactive in our advocacy. Pride serves as a reminder that we must continue to challenge discrimination, push for legislative change, and support our global community. As we celebrate this month, let's remember the primary reason for Pride: to protest against injustice and fight for equality. Let's honor those who paved the way before us and stand in solidarity with those who continue to face persecution. Our collective voice is powerful, and together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity, can live freely authentically. Here's to celebrating our progress, acknowledging our struggles, and committing to a future of true equality. Happy Pride Month! 🏳️🌈 #PrideMonth #LGBTQ #Equality #Inclusion #StandUpForLGBTQRights #CelebrateAndProtest

🌈 Are You Understanding & Embracing Pride? For some, this message may hard to understand. Pride month 🌈 is not just about sexuality, and it’s not the time to say “What people do behind closed doors is none of my business”. Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall Riots, which began on June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. This event was a response to the police raids and harassment that LGBTQ+ individuals faced regularly. I cannot imagine being harassed or my home raided for whom I choose to love, can you❓ 📍 Pride is about making the LGBTQ+ community visible. For many years, LGBTQ+ individuals were forced to hide their true selves. Pride celebrates the courage to be open and proud of one’s identity. 📍 Pride is about advocating for equal rights and social justice. It’s a time to reflect on the progress made and recognize the work still needed to achieve true equality. 📍 Pride events foster a sense of community, providing a supportive environment where people can connect and find allies. 📍 Pride is about acknowledging the history of struggle, the victories won, and the ongoing fight against discrimination and prejudice. It’s a reminder that love is love and that everyone deserves to live authentically without fear. ✝️ For those who like to quote the Bible and are against pride 🌈, let us remember that Jesus exemplified love and acceptance. He spent time with society’s marginalized and outcasts, showing all the way of compassion and understanding. Some might say that Jesus was the biggest liberal in history because he challenged the norms of his time and advocated for radical love and inclusion. 📖 Here are some powerful verses you may wish to reflect on: -“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." John 13:34 -“Judge not, that you be not judged." Matthew 7:1 🌈 Are you celebrating Pride by honoring its roots and continuing to advocate (not only in June) for a world where everyone can live with dignity and respect. #Pride #LoveIsLove #PrideMonth #UnityInDiversity #LGBTQHistory #StonewallRiots #Equality

June 2024 is pride month and we wanted to celebrate and show support for the LGBTQIA+ community and to acknowledge the ongoing fights for equality ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 Data demonstrates how members of this community are more likely to experience sexual violence throughout their lifetime, and we don’t think this stops when they become members of the healthcare workforce. 🏨 As part of our push for intersectional data regarding workplace sexual misconduct, we are now asking for survivors who submit stories to our website to provide us with some information about their protected characteristics including their sexuality, *IF* they feel comfortable to do so. 🌈 This is ✨VOLUNTARY✨ Our aim with this additional information is to further improve the evidence base, researching intersectional issues regarding sexual misconduct within the healthcare workforce ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 We know that a career in healthcare attracts individuals from all walks of life, and we are conscious that the current evidence base is not exploring the impacts of that wonderful diversity enough 👤 If you wish to submit a story to our website, we would really appreciate it: https://lnkd.in/e2ZMdPem We need more LGBTQIA+ voices to be heard during these conversations. Please know we are listening, and will do what we can to amplify the issues that affect you, and push for solutions that serve you. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 #pride #lgbtqai #lgbtq #lgbt #support #ally #allyship #pridemonth #pridemonth2024 #happypride #queer #lesbian #bi #gay #trans #nb #nonbinary #intersex #pansexual #asexual #humanrights #transrights #queer #equality

My thoughts on the LGBTQ community (as a gay guy)… First of all, I completely agree that people should feel proud of their identity. However, I don’t know when it became taboo to dislike certain gay people. If you dislike a whole community based on personal biases? That’s another issue. However, in my case, I don’t like some gay people similar to how I dislike some non-gay people. People are people. In our society, though, it feels like everyone is forced to love every gay person for the sake of inclusion and to avoid being labeled as “homophobic” or “transphobic.” But, again, people are people. Not liking another person is normal. I completely understand that some people are still finding themselves and that can involve over-identifying with certain, personal characteristics. Yet, for some reason, gay people believe that everything should revolve around their gayness: the people they hang out with, the activities they partake in, etc, It doesn’t. What happened to personal hobbies? Spiritual beliefs? Other interests? Just because a person is gay/bi/lesbian, that doesn’t mean they need to like traditional gay things or make it a central focus of their life. I’m only allowed to say this since I am gay but many LGBTQ people are one-dimensional and it should not be celebrated. Here’s my point….the gay community has made a lot of “progress.” However, I just don’t believe that someone should be forced to feel proud of the community or be shut down for holding contrarian opinions. Sure, I completely agree that certain groups should have spaces to socialize, meet, etc. but aren’t we all people at the end of the day? Why should I be friends with someone just because they’re gay? It’s bizarre. I will support someone based on who they are as an individual person, not because of their sexuality. #lgbtq #lgbtqia #pridemonth