Here at the Optimist we are celebrating Pride Month this June, and want to spotlight some LGBTQIA+ creators that we think you should be following. We also want to raise awareness for some LGBTQIA+ charities to help boost support for them, as well as promoting some queer music artists to start listening to this month, and a couple of film suggestions to watch whilst reading this article!
LGBTQIA+ Films and TV series
All of Us Strangers– A sad one for sure but a beautiful storyline and a profound insight into grief. Plus it has Paul Mescal in, which never hurts!
Call Me By Your Name– An absolute staple in the LGBTQIA+ media space. And I think we all saw that dance edit to Melanie Martinez’s music from 2020.
Challengers– I don’t know who I wanted more in this film, Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, or Mike Faist. And evidently, neither did they!
Sex Education– A series for anyone questioning their sexuality, or just coming to terms with it. Funny, informative and impactful, it’s got everything going on.
Heartstopper– This is one of Netflix’s top queer shows, and for good reason! One of those series that no matter how many times I watch it, I never get tired.
LGBTQIA+ Music artists
Troye Sivan– One of the most prolific queer artists of this generation, I didn’t know if I wanted to be him or be with him in his music video ‘One of your Girls’!
Charli XCX– You can’t think of queer icons without thinking of her. Together with Troye Sivan, they have the LGBTQIA+ community in a chokehold.
Freddie Mercury– The OG queer artist, his openness with his sexuality paved the way for queer acceptance and encouraged many closeted individuals to be proud of who they are.
Reneé Rapp– From her starring role in Mean Girls, to her crazy hot performances on stage, it’s safe to say Reneé has cemented her legacy as one of the most talented, and hottest, queer music artists.
LGBTQIA+ Creators
Patrick Starrr– A Filipino-American beauty influencer, known for posting popular videos on YouTube and being the founder of vegan beauty brand ONE/SIZE.
Dan and Phil– Everyone’s favourite childhood streamers, the pair came out in 2019 and have been supported ever since.
Bretman Rock– An Hawaiian-based makeup guru who shot to fame in 2015, and has been a fan-favourite for years. He’s most well-known now for his idyllic countryside lifestyle… and his iconic chickens!
NikkieTutorials– A well-known makeup artist who was blackmailed into coming out as transgender. But she reclaimed this narrative and received unwavering support from fans and public alike.
LGBTQIA+ Charities
MindOut- A charity ran by LGBTQIA+ individuals which offers advice and support, suicide prevention, and online support live chats for people over 18
Hidayah UK– They offer support to LGBTQIA+ Muslim members, providing monthly events, educational workshops and mentoring programmes.
GALOP– Supports queer people who have faced abuse or violence including physical, mental and sexual, as well as hate crimes and conversion therapy.
What are you doing to get involved this pride month? Look up local events near you and get down there to show your support. Happy Pride everyone!
