How to do Pride when you aren’t ready to come out

Jess O'Shea

Pride is coming up in the U.K the next couple of months, everyone's getting ready whether it's a Pride house party, public event or going to the march and celebrate in the streets. Pride is an extroverts dream, an event to celebrate everything about who you are without holding back. But what happens when you are queer, but you're not ready to let anyone know? Well, fear not! This piece will give you some pointers on how to attend pride, be proud of who you are as well as keeping it low-key. 

• Go as an Ally with your queer friends.
  Yep, simple as right? Express interest in wanting to attend the drag shows, experience the clubs and events and have fun! Even if you have completely straight friends, express how fun it will be to all be together and dance all night, like any other regular night out. 
  
  
  
• Go without friends!
  Queer people naturally take others under their wing. Attend the day time parade and party with some new friends. There's also tons of supportive LGBTQ+ stalls and charities at the day time party. You can walk up and chat to them, get to know the charities and their work, get some information on Pride and any youth clubs/groups that are about.

• Seek out LGBTQ+ youth groups!
  I know in Liverpool you can join and chat to the brilliant youth group YPAS, located right by the Adelphi Hotel. They attend Pride every year with their very own stall. It's a safe place for young people from aged 12 that can join. You don't have to disclose your sexuality, you can join for curiosity, or just have a chat at the Pride event itself.
  
  
  
  YPAS Liverpool youth group. http://www.ypas.org.uk/
  
  
• Read up on LGBTQ+ history.
  To really celebrate Pride and its cause, you need to go way back to the 1960's. Pride started when the brave patriots of Stonewall Inn in New York City rioted against the police for constantly busting and beating the club goers. Read up on your trans sisters that helped lead the first Pride, icons such as Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera - and so many more. 
  
  
  
  Sylvia Rivera (Left) Marsh P. Johnson (Right)
  
  
• Support your local Drag Queens!
  Even if you don't end up going to the actual Pride parade, pride is a year round celebration for queer people. One of the best places to start is going to your local drag bar and supporting the queens that perform in ungodly inched heels all night for your entertainment! Have a chat with them at the bar, or the local bar staff to get in the know about the club and drag culture in your city. 
  
  
  
  OMG bar in Liverpool, Victoria Street.
  
  
• Wear a little bit of Pride.
  There's tons of small stores at the Pride celebrations and online (Etsy is my favourite!) That sell small rainbow badges and even ally pins. Pin them on the inside of your jacket and celebrate yourself.
  
  
  LGBT Badges from Etsy (shop:Colouryourlifeclub). 
  
  

Be proud!

• Although you may not be ready to come out, remember your LGBTQ+ community loves you. You matter in this world, and when you're ready, you'll be welcomed with open arms. Remember to stay safe and continue to do your thing. Have a brilliant pride and enjoy yourself!