Here’s how to bring some rainbow cheer to this period
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY ARTEM VARNITSIN/ CANVA
For some LGBTQIA+ people, Christmas can be a tricky or confusing time. Connotations with religion or family can be triggering or bring up bad memories. For some, it might even mean going back into the closet for the festive period.
Whatever your feelings are about Christmas, we want you to enjoy this festive season without compromising on your authentic self. Here are a few ways to show up for your identity this Queermas, even if it’s just a small gesture.
Watch a sapphic Christmas film
Whether you’re a Happiest Season fan or more of a Tello rom-com watcher, snuggle up this winter to watch something warm, fuzzy and super gay. If you’re in a situation where you can’t be your complete self, watching one of these films can help you connect with your identity in the comfort of your own bed. Check out our list here for more inspiration.
Listen to sapphic Christmas music
Yep, Mariah Carey isn’t the only queen of Christmas tunes. Girl in Red, Tegan and Sara, and so many more of your favourite sapphic artists have released festive tracks. Take yourself on a walk – or even just up to your bedroom – to enjoy some of these sweet tunes. Get the full playlist here.
Dress authentically – even if it’s just in the accessories
For many, going home for Christmas means hiding or erasing parts of their identity. Even if you don’t feel comfortable wearing your day-to-day clothes around family members or old friends, don’t completely erase who you are. It could be as simple as wearing a pair of gender-affirming or identity-affirming underwear. A pair of earrings. A ring or a tie. It doesn’t have to be much, but having something to ground you can help you get through this period.
Host a Queermas before the big day
If you’re worried about how the 25 December will go at home, why not host a Queermas of your own with your chosen family before? This can be as big or as small as you want it to be. Cook a meal together, exchange gifts, play board games and blast the Christmas tunes. Even if Christmas itself doesn’t go to plan, knowing you had a spectacularly fun Queermas can help to keep your spirits high.
Make some DIY decorations
If you want to connect with crafting this Christmas, why not make your own rainbow-themed Christmas decor? You can grab some DIY kits from most craft shops, or alternatively use paper and cardboard to fashion your own. Why not draw your favourite queer icon, symbol or quote to hang on the Christmas tree this year?
Help out the LGBTQIA+ community this Christmas
If you’re looking to give back to the community, there are a number of great organisations or charities to head to this Christmas. Check our Trans Secret Santa or akt to find out how you can help spread the Christmas cheer and protect our community in these trying times.
Love media made by and for LGBTQIA+ women and gender diverse people? Then you’ll love DIVA. We’ve been spotlighting the community for over 30 years. Here’s how you can get behind queer media and keep us going for another generation: linkin.bio/ig-divamagazine
Did you know that DIVA has now become a charity? Our magazine is published by the DIVA Charitable Trust. You can find out more about the organisation and how you can offer your support here: divacharitabletrust.com
