Celebrating Pride Month with Girl Scouts
If you’re not sure where to start a conversation with your Girl Scout about LGBTQIA history in America, Pride Month is the perfect place to begin. Child psychology experts often recommend that it is important for caregivers to be proactive in conversations surrounding identity, and Girl Scouts are curious by nature -- they’re going to have questions! The important thing is to normalize these questions.
Talk to your Girl Scout about why Pride month takes place in June. There’s a lot of important history behind this month! Pride started with protests led by LGBTQIA folks, largely transgender women of color. Many historians point to the riots and protests that occurred at the Stonewall Inn in June of 1969 as the start of Pride. These activists, in their bravery and anger, confronted policy brutality and discrimination in their fight for equality. This history is important to all Americans, not just members of the LGBTQIA community. Now, as we challenge our country’s racist history, it’s more important than ever that we, as Girl Scouts, be a voice for change.
Troop Leaders, are you searching for ideas or themes for your next troop meeting? Now is a great time for the Girl Scouts in your troop to learn more about LGBTQIA+ language and history.
External Resources
Trevor Project: Safer Space -- This activity packet contains tons of guides you can lead with your troop to have conversations about LGBTQIA identities and allyship. They’re designed by experts, and completely free to use!
The Safe Zone Project -- Offers over 4 hours of free curriculum packets and trainings for facilitators and participants. These activities are designed for adult professionals, but can be easily adapted for any age group. The facilitator guides are perfect for adults/troop leaders who want to learn more about facilitating workshops about identity!
Girl Scouts Take Action!
Are you passionate about helping LGBTQIA youth, teens, and folks in your area? Searching for a topic for your Gold Award project? Practice your LGBTQIA Allyship! Research and find an LGBT centers in your area! See how you can combine your Girl Scout activist skills with your passion to help others.
