June is Pride Month, a time when the LGBTQ+ community comes together to celebrate their identities, their history, and their progress. Pride Month is a time for celebration, but it is also a time for reflection. It is a time to think about the work that still needs to be done to create a more inclusive and accepting world for all people.

One of the ways that we can support the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month (and all year round) is by supporting small businesses that are owned by members of the community. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they are often the lifeblood of our communities. When we support small businesses, we are not only supporting the individuals who own and operate those businesses, but we are also supporting the broader community.

Small businesses that are owned by members of the LGBTQ+ community are particularly important because they provide a space where people can feel safe and accepted. These businesses create an environment where people can be themselves, without fear of discrimination or harassment. By supporting these businesses, we are helping to create a more inclusive and accepting world.

But supporting small businesses is only one part of the equation. We also need to be allies to the LGBTQ+ community. Being an ally means standing up for the rights of the community, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable. It means using our privilege and our voice to advocate for change.

One way to be an ally is to educate ourselves about the issues that affect the LGBTQ+ community. This means reading books, watching documentaries, and listening to the stories of people who belong to the community. It also means speaking out when we hear someone making derogatory comments or engaging in discriminatory behavior.

We can also be allies by supporting organizations that are working to create a more inclusive and accepting world. These organizations provide valuable resources and support to members of the community, and they are often on the front lines of the fight for equality.

Inclusivity and diversity are at the core of the LGBTQ+ community, and they should be at the core of our society as well. By supporting small businesses, being allies, and working to create a more inclusive world, we can help to ensure that everyone feels safe, accepted, and valued. Pride Month is a time for celebration, but it is also a time for action. Let's all do our part to create a better world for all people.