Understanding Sexual Orientation

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Pride events provide a meaningful sense of community belonging.

Pride events encourage the expression of authentic sexual and gender identities, without shame.

Pride events are good for mental health as they promote acceptance, validation, and empowerment.

For many queer people, Pride events are far more than parties and fun. They are opportunities to connect and participate in a diverse community that has been, and still is, marginalised. The common themes of Pride are resilience, progress and “queer joy.” While every individual makes their own meaning of Pride, attending these events can offer a wide range of personal, social, and emotional benefits that extend beyond the event itself, and into overall well-being.

One of the most significant benefits of attending Pride events is the sense of belonging it can create. Many queer people feel isolated, different from others around them, or even “broken”. Even in liberal countries, oppression and discrimination against LGBTQ people are rife, and, unfortunately, on the increase. Pride events bring together thousands of people who share similar experiences, identities, or values. Being surrounded by others who openly celebrate their sexuality and gender identity can be a powerful reminder that we are not alone. This feeling of community often helps queer people develop greater self-acceptance.

Pride events also bring together our heterosexual and cisgender allies, who are so important too. For example, seeing parents who march at Pride events saying “I’m proud of my gay child” can be so healing for all of us as a community, as we are well aware that some queer people still get thrown out of their........

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