Therapist's Emotional Plea: Why Pride Flags Matter to LGBTQ+ Safety

This Pride Month, a licensed therapist, Jess, shares her experience of navigating the world as an openly queer person. She describes the powerful emotional impact of encountering businesses that openly support the LGBTQ+ community with Pride flags and inclusive displays. "It's very noticeable to me when businesses opt out of participating in Pride," Jess says, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals. She recounts a recent brunch date with her partner, where they felt a sense of relief and belonging in an accepting establishment. This contrast highlights the stark reality many queer people face: the constant worry of not being welcome. Jess's message serves as a call to action for businesses to actively demonstrate their support and create environments where everyone feels safe and accepted. Her words resonate with the broader LGBTQ+ community and their allies, underscoring the significance of visible allyship and the positive impact it has on individuals' well-being. Her story serves as a reminder that simple acts of inclusivity can make a world of difference.