Hello Wattpadders,

Every day in this new world, we're redefining the meaning of community.

We can't stand close, we can't embrace, and the distance can feel challenging. But somehow, we've managed to still be here for each other. And this Pride month, our connection to the community matters more than ever.

Community action is what drives change. Pride started as a result of the Stonewall riots — a protest against police brutality. What LGBTQIAP+ rights exist in North America is a result of Black and Brown communities protesting for their freedom. This struggle continues to this day and we're watching it continue to unfold with recent events around the world. In a strange way, self-isolation and social distancing have reinforced the power of connection. The importance of holding space for one another in whatever way we can.

While hundreds of Pride events around the world have been cancelled, we're honoring Pride month virtually. But, it's always Pride at Wattpad. Raising LGBTQIAP+ voices from within our community is one of the core values of who we are. Our global community is made up of writers and readers across the spectrum of lesbian, gay, bi, queer, questioning, trans, intersex, asexual, pansexual, gender-nonbinary, and beyond. And among them, fighting for representation, are the black LGBTQIAP+ community, who have made the Pride movement what it is. We're honoring all ways our LGBTQIAP+ community blooms together, connects to one another, and illuminates the world, by supporting our growing community of LGBTQIAP+ voices that are finding their roots and sharing their stories. 

Here are just a few of the ways you can join us this month:

• Check out our specially curated Pride reading lists to discover stories from unique voices in the LGBTQIAP+ writing community.

• Join the LGBTQIAP+ profile page where our Ambassadors are planning a "Get Together" with daily activities like FlashFic contests, Graphic Contests, Drabble Contest and other fun smaller incentives!

• Take part in our first ever Pride virtual book club featuring four LGBTQIAP+ stories launching on Thursday. We'll be sharing more details about that on our Community Happenings page.

• Follow us on Social Media (@wattpad on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok) where we'll be sharing lots of Pride content throughout the month. How are you holding space for Pride? Make sure to tag us in your posts using #PrideAtWattpad

Thank you for being a part of our community. 

- Wattpad HQ