Pride is More Than a Month – Living Authentically Year-Round
As June draws to a close, it’s easy to think of Pride as something we only see once a year—rainbow flags waving, joyful parades, and vibrant community gatherings. But here in the holler, we know that Pride is more than a month. It’s a way of living, every single day.
For LGBTQ+ folks and allies alike, Pride is a daily act of courage, self-compassion, and celebration. It’s a quiet reminder that your identity is valid and deserving of respect—not just in June, but every single day of the year.
Pride Beyond the Parade
The parades and festivals are beautiful, but Pride is about so much more than a single event. Living authentically, day by day, means honoring who you are, even when it’s hard. It means creating moments of joy and finding safety in your truth.
Your identity is worthy of respect and joy, no matter the season.
Living Authentically, Every Day
Here are some practical steps and skills for carrying the spirit of Pride throughout the year:
1. Practice Self-Compassion
In a world that doesn’t always understand or accept us, self-compassion can be a radical act. Here’s how to lean into it:
Notice your self-talk. Are you being harsh or judgmental with yourself? Pause and reframe.
Use affirming language. For example, instead of “I’m not enough,” try “I’m doing my best, and that’s enough.”
Offer yourself kindness like you would to a friend. A gentle hand on your heart, a quiet reminder: “I am valid, and I deserve care.”
2. Celebrate Small Joys
Pride doesn’t have to be loud. Sometimes it’s in the small moments that affirm who you are:
Sipping your morning coffee from a rainbow mug.
Putting on your favorite song and dancing like no one’s watching.
Sharing a laugh with a friend who sees and accepts you fully.
These little acts of joy are powerful. They’re daily reminders that your life is worthy of celebration.
3. Build and Tend to Community
In rural areas like Eastern Kentucky, finding queer community can feel challenging—but it’s so worth it. Community doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful:
Send a text to a trusted friend.
Join an online group if local resources feel scarce.
Make a ritual of connection—like monthly coffee chats with affirming folks.
Even small connections can nourish your spirit and remind you that you’re not alone.
4. Seek Support When You Need It
Living authentically isn’t a journey you have to take alone. Therapy, support groups, and safe spaces are powerful tools:
If you’re struggling with your mental health, consider reaching out to a counselor.
Check out organizations like The Trevor Project, PFLAG, or local LGBTQ+ groups for resources and community.
Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness. It takes a lot of strength and courage to admit that you can’t do it on your own.
“When we choose to be visible and authentic, we choose to live in the fullness of our humanity. ”
Resources to Keep Pride Alive
Even when the banners come down, these resources can help keep the spirit of Pride strong:
🔹 The Trevor Project – Crisis intervention and resources for LGBTQ+ youth
🔹 Trans Lifeline – Peer support hotline run by and for trans people
🔹 PFLAG – Family and ally support to help navigate the challenges of coming out and living authentically
🔹Camp Beacon – https://www.campbeacon.org/ – Kentucky’s first summer camp for LGBTQ youth, fostering belonging, acceptance, and leadership
🔹CenterLink’s list of LGBT community centers in your state: https://www.lgbtcenters.org/LGBTCenters
🔹Lambda Legal help desk for legal assistance: https://www.lambdalegal.org/helpdesk
🔹Learn more about the laws and policies in your state: http://www.lgbtmap.org/equality-maps
🔹 Q Chat Space – Live chat groups for LGBTQ+ teens, led by trained facilitators
🔹 Fairness Campaign– Kentucky’s LGBTQ advocacy organization founded in 1991. Its primary goal is comprehensive civil rights legislation prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity and to dismantle systemic racism.
🔹 Counseling in the Holler – My practice is here to offer a safe, affirming space to explore these topics and build resilience together.
A Personal Reflection from the Holler
Pride, to me, is about having a safe place to be yourself and to share understanding and resources in a world that doesn’t always feel welcoming. It’s about living our truth with compassion, and supporting each other in that journey; creating spaces of love and safety—places where we can all be exactly who we are. It’s about having a place to go that shows nothing but love and acceptance, even when some families or communities fall short.
At Counseling in the Holler, I’m committed to keeping that spirit alive – not just in June, but every day. I believe healing and joy are possible for each of us, no matter where we live.
Final Thought: You Deserve to Be Seen
As Pride Month comes to an end, let’s carry its spirit forward. Let’s remember that your story matters every single day—and that living authentically is a lifelong, beautiful journey.
You are valid. You are loved. You are enough.
Need Support Along the Way?
If you or someone you care about is navigating mental health challenges, identity struggles, discrimination, addiction, or life’s transitions, please know: you’re not alone. Counseling in the Holler LLC offers warm, affirming therapy for folks across Kentucky—children (ages 7-17) and adults (18+). Reach out when you’re ready. Healing and hope are always possible.
