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How To Show Your Support If You Can't Make The NYC Pride Parade

Yana Paskova/Getty Images News/Getty Images

The NYC Pride Parade is almost here. And if you can join on June 25, then you definitely should. The spectacle, joy, and celebration of it all is pretty breathtaking. But if you can't make the parade in NYC — if you're too far away or it's just not an option — don't panic. Being at the NYC Parade is amazing, but there are so many different ways to show you support.

In addition to the NYC Pride Parade, there are also other events that happen around the country and around the world, and they're not just in June. And even if going to an event or celebrating in that way isn't possible — or just isn't your thing— there are a lot of other options for getting involved and showing your support for the queer community.

Let's be honest, Trump taking office can feel like such a setback for the LGBTQ community. There's been Mike Pence's history with LGBTQ discrimination, Trump's withdrawal of transgender protections, and the fact that Trump has yet to recognize Pride month. And it's only June, people. We really need the celebration this year.

So whether you want to feel as close as possible to the action or you want to dig in and really get involved by giving back, there are ways to do it. Here are some ways to get involved, even if you can't make the parade.

1

Catch It On TV

I know, it's about time. The Macy's Day parade has nothing on Pride. And now, for the first time, you can catch a live broadcast on ACB7 from 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. Bring all the rainbows right into your living room.

2

Treat Your Self

That's right, you can support Pride and treat yourself at the same time. Kapten & Son is releasing a limited edition PRIDE watch— with 15 percent of proceeds from the sale of each watch going to Heritage of Pride, a non-profit that produces the NYC Pride events. And they're snazzy AF.

3

Get Ready For 2019

NYC Pride has a recurring Stonewall50 Merchandise Collection, including beauts like this unisex tank top. Stonewall50 is for the commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, which will take place in 2019. But there's no reason you can't start showing your support now, no matter where in the world you are.

4

Find A Local Event

Pride isn't just in NYC. It's not just in America. There are so many celebrations around the world — so if New York isn't an option for you, check out a Pride Calendar and see when and where you can get involved.

5

Phone A Friend

Making a difference to one person can be all the difference. Especially if your social network is located somewhere without much support for the LGBTQ community — or accessibility to things like Pride— reaching out to people who may need it is huge.

6

Donate

Sometimes, you just need to say it with cash. Your money can go a long way in helping everything that NYC Pride does. "Your donation will support annual programming and events that help inspire, educate, commemorate and celebrate our diverse community," their site explains. "Help us work toward a future without discrimination where all people have equal rights under the law."

7

Volunteer Locally

Whether you're an ally or LGBTQ yourself, there are always ways to get involved through direct action. There are so many groups out there that support and aid the queer community — and queer youth, who are especially vulnerable. Check out lists of LGBTQ support organizations and find one near and dear to you.

So no matter where you are, there are so many ways to get involved and show your support.