June is Pride Month! So we’re talking about Pride Month and IDD. This is a special time to celebrate people in the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ stands for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or have other identities. Everyone should be proud of who they are.

Visibility Is Important

Visibility means being seen and heard. It is important for LGBTQ+ people to be seen. This helps others know that it is okay to be yourself. Seeing people like you can make you feel safe, strong, and not alone.

Some people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are also part of the LGBTQ+ community. They should be seen too! Everyone’s story matters.

Creating Safe Spaces

During Pride Month and all year, we must create safe spaces.  A safe space is a place where people feel welcome. In a safe space, you can be yourself without feeling afraid or judged. This is very important for LGBTQ+ people and for people with IDD.

Safe spaces can be at home, in school, at work, or at Pride events. In safe spaces, people listen to each other, speak kindly, and support each other.

Pride Month and IDD: Inclusion Matters!

Being inclusive means making sure everyone feels welcome. Here are some ways to help make Pride events friendly for everyone:

• Use kind and easy words. This helps people with IDD understand and join in.
• Have quiet spaces. These help people who need a break from loud music or big crowds.
• Ask what people need. Some people might need help and feel unsure how to ask.
• Use signs and pictures. These help people know where to go and what to do.
• Be respectful. Everyone should feel safe and loved just the way they are.
  
  

Want to learn more?

• Watch the Gender Identity playlist on our YouTube channel.
• Read about Transgender Day of Visibility on our blog.
• Build your self-advocacy skills with our free courses.
• Check out the Rainbow Support Group Guidebook. A person with IDD who is transgender created this! It’s a great way to build safe spaces.
  
  

Pride Month is a time to stand together. We can all help by being kind, listening, and making sure no one is left out. When we support each other, we make the world a better place for everyone.

Happy Pride! 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️