It is a journey to develop lesbian pride.You can learn more about your new community by joining organizations.When people say bad things about lesbians, you can speak out.You can become more of an activist if you educate others about LGBT rights.Being a lesbian means finding self-acceptance and coming out to others.
Step 1: Overcome feelings of shame.
It is common to have difficulty accepting your identity because of feelings of fear and shame.You might be worried that you won't be accepted by your family or peers.You might start to feel isolated from other people.If your family, culture, and/or religion is against LGBT identities, you might have more difficulty with feelings of fear, shame and denial.It is normal for you to feel like being a lesbian isn't permanent at this stage.
Step 2: Accept your identity.
Explore more about what it means to be a lesbian in order to move past the negative feelings of shame and isolation.If you want to connect with other lesbians, seek out.You can learn more about the culture of lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer people.Most universities have a LGBT resource center where you can find information, community resources, cultural events, and supportive people.If you are a teenager with a family and school that is accepting of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer identities, you should talk to your guidance counselor or other students.If you are a teenager and don't feel safe in your community, check out the online resources from The Trevor Project.They have online resources about sexual orientation and the coming out process, as well as a safe space for you to chat with others online for more information.You can call the hotline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Step 3: Your identity should be shared with others.
It is time to share who you are with others.When you want to tell them, choose who to come out to.You don't have to come out to everyone at the same time, and some people choose to stay out of the public eye.To be the first person you come out to, choose someone who is supportive of you.Prepare yourself for rejection and negative reactions.Some people may not like you.They may need time to adjust.
Step 4: Lesbians can meet other lesbians.
You should be more immersed in the lesbian community.Lesbian values and organizations can be found.There are churches and businesses that cater to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer community.Lesbians in your community can benefit from festivals, events, and support groups.The National Center for Lesbian Rights and PFLAG chapters are available in every state.Teens and youth identify as queer or trans.
Step 5: Lesbian role models can be seen on social media.
Lesbian role models can affirm you can be who you are.You will feel a sense of pride and hope when you see these women.Consider paying attention to people like Ellen.
Step 6: Start small.
Start small to show your pride before you become an activist.You can fly a rainbow flag.You can put the Human Rights Campaign logo on your car."Orange is the New Black" is a television show that supports lesbians.
Step 7: Don't be here.
In public, be open and authentic.Don't be afraid to kiss your partner in public.Don't hide the fact that you're dating a woman.It's a good idea to use caution when showing your pride.You're always coming out when you meet someone new at work, share your story, or advocate for LGBT rights.You helped someone who was struggling with their identity.
Step 8: There are lesbian stereotypes.
There is a stereotype that if you're a lesbian, you have to dress like a man.This is not necessarily true.Lesbians of all shapes and sizes are celebrated.
Step 9: You have to learn as much as you can.
Even if you have had personal life experiences with a subject, it takes time to become an expert.People are more likely to listen to you if you are willing to learn from their point of view.The views of other people may be included.Listen to other people's perspectives and personal experiences, and find research and data from reliable sources to keep learning.
Step 10: Speak up.
Explain what words are okay to use for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer population when others say discrimination.To become allies, heterosexual people should be educated and encouraged.Heterosexual people should examine their privilege, gender roles, and sexuality.
Step 11: Be an activist.
You can have a positive impact through education and advocacy if you commit to being part of social change.Advocate for lesbian and gay rights.You can go to rallies and demonstrations.There are gay pride parades and celebrations.CenterLink is a network of LGBT Community Centers.Ensuring that same-sex partners are included in your health plan.You can visit your representatives in Congress and educate them about the needs of the LGBT population.There are protests in the world where lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer people face discrimination.
Step 12: Let's celebrate.
You have faced challenges and discrimination because you are a lesbian.It has allowed you to grow strength in the face of adversity.It is a good idea to celebrate your self-confidence, pride, and increased empathy.
Step 13: Integrate your identity.
Sexual orientation is only one part of who you are.Increase your time spent in other communities and cultures, not just lesbian-oriented, and be comfortable being a lesbian in these other spaces.Allow yourself to connect with people who are not lesbians.Continue to educate them and be proud of who you are.