In Pride and Protest
Photo taken by Madie at Hopscotch in Portland, OR
Right now, many of us carry an underlying weight — a rock in our stomach that surfaces throughout the day, filled with frustration, fear, and concerns for safety. Alongside it lingers a pressing question: What can I do? For those who identify as queer, this may be a familiar feeling.
Many in vulnerable communities have learned to live with this heaviness, often resigning to the idea that, alone, we can’t do much. But now is the time to challenge that notion — because there is something we can do. For some, it’s organizing a local protest. For others, it’s creating art. The key is to find what you love, what you’re good at, and use that as your form of resistance.
Change rarely happens overnight or through the actions of just one person. It’s the small, persistent acts of defiance that build momentum over time. The Civil Rights Movement didn’t begin with Rosa Parks sitting on a bus — it was a movement that grew and strengthened, leading to that pivotal moment. Never underestimate the power of a single act.
If you’re wondering, But how do I find the energy or time? — start by resting when you need to. Activism is a shared effort. When you step back, someone else steps in, and when you’re ready, you can return. Community is essential, so seek out spaces where you can connect with like-minded people who remind you that you are not alone in this fight. To continue resisting, we must take care of ourselves.
As we navigate the coming years, remember: You are not alone. There are people ready to stand beside you. If it ever feels like too much, reach out for support. Anxiety and depression are common experiences in times like these, and you don’t have to carry the weight by yourself. A therapist can help hold some of it with you, so you can continue doing what feels right.
If you are looking for this support, please reach out to Advanced Counseling Bozeman to see if we have the right fit for you.
And always remember: We are not going anywhere. Take up space. You belong.