Supporting rainbow families this Wear it Purple Day
Wear it Purple Day reminds us all how important it is to support our rainbow young people. Led by the student-led organisation, Wear it Purple, it’s a day that reminds us of the impact we can have on each other, and how we can create a safe environment for those we love.
Family can be a key part of many of our lives, so it is important to show each other how loved we are. It’s an experience that our Deputy CEO Heather Preston knows all too well.
Heather has been fortunate to have a supportive, close family that faces different types of challenges.
‘I think the biggest challenge has been as a parent navigating other families and whether they are supportive of our family structure. It’s had to be a consideration when the kids want to have friends over and addressing any negativity from others about them having two Mums,’ she explains.
Even though we have come a long way in terms of LGBTQIA+ acceptance, it can still be a risk for many. A 2019 Trobe University Study asked questions to over 6,000 LGBTQIA+ people aged 14 to 21 about their experiences, and learned that 23.6 percent had experienced homelessness. This was often related to family rejections for the participant’s sexuality or gender identity.
Navigating family experiences as a queer person can be daunting for so many, and Heather offers advice to those who are unsure about coming out to their loved ones.
‘You don’t owe anyone anything. Trust who you feel comfortable sharing with and do so in your own time.’
As times change, we hope that everyone can have an experience like Heather, where their feelings and stories are validated. As this isn’t the case for everyone, you can turn to other support networks. A chosen family gives comfort in times of need and can be found by a good group of friends you have stumbled upon in life.
If someone you love does come out to you, it can be difficult to know how to respond. There is no definitive answer or way to do it, but Heather has given a few suggestions.
‘Thank them for trusting you and sharing. Ask them if they’re ok and if they need any support. Then give them a big hug (if they’re ok with hugging!) and tell them you love them.
If they do need support, find the right people to connect them with. You don’t have to have all of the answers.’
There are plenty of organisations that provide resources to LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families. Minus 18, for example, provides workshops and resources for those who want to learn more about being an effective ally while supporting people in every stage of their life.
Today is the perfect day to start advocating for yourself and your loved ones. Heather explains how people can get more involved this Wear It Purple Day:
‘Donate to local LGBTQIA+ groups if you can afford it. Attend an event and learn from people's lived experiences. Read about the history of Wear it Purple. And most importantly, take what you learn and show your support by being an active ally all year round.’