No one should ever feel unsafe at joyous celebrations. No one should feel unsafe, but many of us do, especially during a time in U.S. history when outbreaks of hate and violence seem like an ever-present threat to everyone who supports LGBTQI rights. Whether you are gay, trans, kinky or an ally who attends large events, understanding the potential for trouble and being ready to dodge bullets — both metaphorically and literally — may be your best defense against hate crimes.
The BED Reading Library is honored to announce our latest addition, How to Stay Safe During Pride by Jude Samson.
As our Library Associate, Skyewriter put it in her note to this piece,
Although this article focuses on personal safety for Pride celebrations, almost everything here is applicable to attendance at any kind of group gathering in this day and age. Don’t let fear keep you from socializing and involvement— just be careful out there! — SkyeWriter
It’s painfully true. And it isn’t limited to LGBTQ people either in this current political climate. Their friends and allies face a similar risk. BDSMers and other kinky/poly/queer people should make it essential reading as well as people who attend alternative music concerts and festivals. We deeply truly hope you never run into a hater, but understanding the risks they present, especially when armed, is crucial to surviving even the hairiest situation. T
That’s what How to Stay Safe During Pride is all about. Jude Samson based the article on his professional experience dealing with emergency medical situations.
My M.S. in Emergency Management affords me a great deal of knowledge on emergencies and preparedness. Many things are simply a matter of observing your surroundings and being vigilant, but there are some things you may not be aware of for yourself that could be useful and helpful. When you’re at exciting and large-scale events, it’s easy to be distracted. Here are some tips to help you celebrate Pride this month as safely as possible. — Jude Samson
Jude lays out the risks, from the deeply upsetting to the downright life-threatening, and then tells you how to make sure you don’t become a statistic. It’s some of the best, most in-depth advice on personal safety for the rainbow and kink communities that you will ever see.
Read it now, and please share it widely.
