Pride: Embracing authenticity, challenging assumptions, fostering empathy, and celebrating diversity.

Pride month in Toronto is a celebration of the identities and resilience of people who identify within the LGBTQ2+ or 2SLGBTQIA (2-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual) community. It’s a time to recognize the rights and achievements of people belonging to this community, commemorate the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally, and acknowledge what this community has taught us about what being a better human actually means.   

Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ2+ community, an ally, or are completely unfamiliar with the term in its entirety, there are countless lessons that we can learn from this group, especially for the marketing world. Whether it be for brand development, content creation, or storytelling, here are a few things that I’ve learned from the 2SLGBTQIA folks in my life that you can apply to your life as well as your work:

1. Embrace Authenticity and Self-Discovery: Individuals within the LGBTQ2+ community often undergo a process of self-discovery and self-acceptance as they navigate their sexual orientation and gender identity. As a result, they value and often emphasize the importance of embracing one's true self. They encourage authenticity and self-acceptance, reminding us that being true to ourselves is crucial for personal happiness and fulfillment. Embrace your own process of self-discovery, exploring your passions, and understanding your true self. Demonstrate your own authenticity, acknowledge your passions, and express yourself genuinely!

2. Challenge Assumptions and Stereotypes: The LGBTQ2+ community have consistently challenged societal assumptions and stereotypes about gender, sexuality, and relationships. They encourage critical thinking and encourage us to question and challenge the status quo. You can too! Practice challenging your own assumptions and biases by asking questions, listening intently, and promoting inclusivity to break free from societal norms and expectations.

3. Foster Empathy and Understanding: LGBTQ2+ creators often prioritize empathy and understanding in their work, promoting a more compassionate society. They create stories that encourage viewers to step into the shoes of LGBTQ2+ characters, fostering empathy and understanding of their experiences. Strengthen your own storytelling by learning to cultivate empathy; seek out diverse perspectives, listen to marginalized voices, and seek to understand the struggles faced by individuals with experiences different from your own.

4. Celebrate Diversity: LGBTQ2+ creators celebrate the diversity of identities and experiences within their own community. They promote a world where differences are embraced and celebrated. Learn to appreciate and celebrate diversity in all its forms, acknowledging the beauty and strength that comes from embracing a wide range of perspectives and experiences. Your heart (and your work) will thank you for it! 

As Pride month comes to an end, don’t put away your rainbow flags just yet. There’s so much more you can learn from this community and their experiences that can contribute to your own personal growth, your work, and your community, whatever it may be. 

Pride, by definition, is a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one's own achievements, the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated, or from qualities or possessions that are widely admired. Pride is a consciousness of one’s own dignity. Pride is universal and with it, we say, “I’m someone who shouldn’t be rejected.”  

How will LGBTQ2+ Pride inspire your own? Let’s work together and figure that out. 

VC Crapsi-Krisiuk (she/her, they/them) is the Associate Director of Operations & Marketing at Innovate By Day and a fierce EDI advocate. Send VC an email at vc@innovatebyday.ca.