Robyn is the CEO & Founder of HER. Find her on Twitter.
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Mar 23, 2023
It’s that time of year again — International Lesbian Visibility Day. Here at HER we celebrate the lesbian community 365 days a year. But on April 26th, we’ll be joined by communities and organizations around the world.
Let’s hear it for the lesbians!
Lesbian Visibility Day is a time to recognize the worldwide lesbian community. Lesbians have contributed to society both in the public eye and behind the scenes. Yes, we’ve made progress as a culture in our acceptance of queer people. But lesbians still face judgment, discrimination, and stereotypes.
Lesbian Visibility Day is a chance for queer women to feel seen and accepted. It’s a time to remember those trailblazing lesbians who came before us, and to look to a brighter future of inclusion and acceptance. Whether you’re a public figure, a social justice warrior, or a lesbian making a stand by living her authentic life, this is your day!
Lesbian Visibility Day takes place every April 26th. Why April 26th? The background is a little fuzzy.
There’s a rumor that the end of April was chosen to commemorate the famous lesbian kiss on the Ellen show from The Puppy Episode in 1997. But we can’t confirm that…
International Lesbian Visibility Day made its first appearance on the queer scene in 2008. This is a day to recognize the struggles and successes of lesbian women in the fight for equality. LVD is meant to create a safe space for queer women to feel seen and express themselves.
If Lesbian Visibility Day is new to you, you’re not alone. But over the 15 years since its creation, LVD has gained traction. Each year more countries and communities commemorate this day worldwide.
In 2008, a group of passionate activists and allies joined forces with the ILGA (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association) and the IGLYO (International LGBTQI Youth and Student Organisation) to create a day of celebration for lesbian women worldwide. And so, on April 26th of each year, we come together to honor and uplift the incredible diversity of queer women.
This day serves as a reminder that our community is vibrant and multifaceted, and that we have so much to celebrate and be proud of. It’s a time to embrace our identities, connect with each other, and advocate for greater visibility and acceptance of queer women around the globe. Let’s keep the spirit of this day alive, and continue to fight for a world where all lesbian women can live and love freely and without fear.
Yes! Yes, we do. Here at HER we surveyed the lesbian community back in 2018. And we discovered that a shocking number of women didn’t feel welcome at Pride events. Lesbians are a critical part of the LGBTQ+ community — they claim the first letter after all. But not all queer women feel welcomed and respected. Lesbian Visibility Day is our chance to bring the ‘L’ in LGBTQIA+ into the spotlight.
The first Lesbian Visibility Week was observed in mid-July 1990. It all started because lesbians were frustrated that gay men had higher visibility and awareness than gay women.
West Hollywood Lesbian Visibility Committee and the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center coordinated that first Lesbian Visibility Week. They devoted those days to the celebration of the lesbian community and raising awareness of lesbian identities.
Now Lesbian Visibility Week is kicked off on April 26th — on Lesbian Visibility Day. Lesbian Visibility Week has gained momentum and grown in popularity over the years. This week highlights the fight for lesbian rights, recognition, and acceptance. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of lesbians all across the world.
There are many fun and creative ways to commemorate this day and show support for the lesbian community. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Gather your friends and loved ones and throw a bash in honor of lesbian visibility! You can make it a themed party with some super gay music. And decorate the space with rainbows, the lesbian flag, and lesbian-themed art. Make this an occasion to remember by asking people to come all glammed up — or even consider throwing a costume party where everyone dresses up as their favorite lesbian celeb.
Check out what’s happening in your area and join in on the festivities. Many cities host parades, marches, and festivals for Lesbian Visibility Day. This is a great opportunity to connect with other queer people and show your support for the community.
LVD is a great chance for lesbians to live their queerness out LOUD. Wear a “Love is Love” t-shirt, match your outfit to the lesbian flag, or sport a rainbow bracelet to let the world know that you’re proud to be a lesbian. The world is your very iconically lesbian oyster. You can also create your own DIY pride gear. Paint a rainbow on your nails or try some Pride-style makeup. Wear your pride on your sleeve — or your lapel or backpack — and let your rainbow colors shine!
Here at HER we celebrate the entire LGBTQ+ community. And on April 26th, we’ll stand united with the world as we shine a light on lesbians and all they’ve contributed. And if you’re looking for someone to share this special day with, we’ve got you. The HER app is loaded with lesbians looking for some fun.
Cheers to the lesbians!
Robyn is the CEO & Founder of HER. Find her on Twitter.
