Youth Workers at Services for Young People (SfYP) LGBT+ youth work projects worked with young people last month to help them understand the significance of Pride Month and to support them in celebrating equality, contributions of LGBT+ people and raising awareness of issues affecting the community.
At the Stevenage LGBT+ project, they learnt about the meanings behind each colour of the Pride progress flag and the history of Pride through a team quiz. They explored the importance of being an ally and how to report bullying. The young people particularly enjoyed interviewing each other to get a better understanding of their own and other’s values and beliefs and how these relate to their identity. They used these ideas to create posters showcasing what Pride means to them and their artwork will be displayed at the Bowes Lyon Young People’s Centre. The group now appreciates and celebrates differences, as well as being more aware of similarities, which has improved their confidence and created a sense of belonging.
Young people at the Dacorum LGBT+ project worked together to crochet Pride flags. During the activity, they discussed LGBT+ history, practised mindfulness, and built resilience.
In Broxbourne, young people celebrated Pride and their identities by making T-shirts, while in St Albans, they explored the use of makeup in the LGBT+ community and the importance of self-expression.
All the projects gave the young people a platform to learn, express themselves, and celebrate Pride in meaningful ways. The activities have improved their understanding of LGBT+ history and issues that affect them, but also created a sense of community and support. Many young people plan to attend various Pride events, including Herts Pride in Watford in the school summer holidays.
Young people who took part in the SfYP Pride Month activities said:
“It’s important to celebrate the rights we have, advocating for the ones we have yet to have, and not forgetting those who fought for the rights we have now.”
“I’ve really enjoyed being accepted for who I am and who I love.”
“It’s great having a new activity… and being able to just talk about how I’m doing.”
“It was lovely being able to help others use makeup to express themselves.”
SfYP LGBT+ projects are safe and inclusive environments where young people can meet others, get support and information on a range of issues and learn new things.
Find out about the LGBT+ projects for young people in your area.
