Quick Guide to Navigating Pride Events Safely

Pride is a time of celebration, honoring the past, and loving yourself. With all that excitement, it’s important to remember to stay safe if you're celebrating this year! Here are some tips for doing just that:

Go with a buddy- it’s always good to go with people you can trust.

• If you don’t know anyone to go with or you don’t feel safe with friends/family, you can always use the Internet to find safe groups of friends online. Local groups usually host safe get-togethers at designated points. Check out Facebook groups and apps like Meet Up and Taimi. When meeting up with strangers, just remember to let someone else know where you’re going and to check in with them if possible.

Act as each other’s accountability buddy and stick together.

• If you plan to go sober, it can be helpful to bring another sober buddy so that you can advocate for each other and not feel left out! One trigger for substance use can lead to feelings of loneliness or isolation, and this is one way to get ahead of it.
• If you’re drinking, make sure you discuss with people you’re going with and know who has offered to take care of you.

Take care of your body while you party.

• Bring your own non-alcoholic drinks, and be sure to drink lots of water. It can get hot on a June day, and you want to be mindful of keeping your body in top shape for maximum enjoyment of the event. If you’re drinking alcohol, be sure to drink water, Gatorade, or other flavored beverages to stay hydrated.
• Bring sunscreen, and be sure to apply often!
• Prepare yourself for the weather. Bring layers to add or take off if it rains or gets too hot.

Charge your phone and bring extra juice.

• In case you need to contact someone, it’s always good to make sure you’re prepared. Besides, you’ll probably be taking lots of pictures and posting on social media!
• Write down a list of important numbers, just in case your phone does die or you lose service. Some numbers to include are members of your groups’ phone numbers, friends’ numbers, family/people you trust who can help, and local help numbers.

Know where to go.

• Familiarize yourself with the area you are visiting before you show up. This way, you can avoid getting lost and know your exits.

Let others know of your plans and if they change.

• Just like if you’re hiking or visiting an unfamiliar city, it’s important to let people know your plans. Let them know how long you’re staying at the parade or walking around vendors. When are you going to hit up what bar? Did you meet a cute potential date? Before you go home with them, make sure someone knows who you’re with and where you’re going.

Trust your instincts. Know your boundaries.

• If you feel uneasy, it’s ok to leave. The same goes for if you’re feeling overwhelmed or peopled-out. There is always next year or the year after!
• If parades and large gatherings are too much, especially after adjusting to the pandemic, there are other options! Consider visiting a queer-friendly brunch with friends or visiting a local LGBT+ movie screening. You can even host a small get-together where you can call the shots and decide exactly how to celebrate. There are many options out there. Check out your city’s pride website for options, or ask around in local groups.
• Know your limits with consuming alcohol or other substances.

Protect yourself.

• Make sure to practice safe sex and to communicate with any potential partners.
• As a Friday member, you have access to free STI screenings! It is recommended that you get screened after every partner, so we hope you take advantage. Learn more about your sexual health benefits as a Friday member here.

Have fun!

• Remember, this is your time. Be safe but be sure to let yourself enjoy the celebration.

As always, if you have any questions about your plan, services, or benefits, please reach out to the Friday Care Crew.