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Pride Month

On June 28, 1969, New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club in Greenwich Village, treating patrons and employees with violence. The raid sparked riots and protests for the next six days and was a catalyst for the modern gay rights movement in the United States.

Throughout the month and beyond, the Metropolitan Library System is committed to highlighting LGBTQ2S+ reading or listening recommendations and other resources, along with offering programs that amplify LGBTQ2S+ voices and stories. For the latest LGBTQ2S+ events at the Metropolitan Library System, please check our Calendar of Events. 

 

Pride for Children & Families


Supplies

  • Paper or Cardstock
  • 3 different colors of pipe cleaners
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Stapler

Steps & Instructions

  1. Using card stock or regular paper cut a 1" strip to fit your head (you may have to staple two strips together!
  2. Cut the first color of pipe cleaners into 6" pieces, second color into 4" pieces, and last color into 3" pieces.
  3. Starting with the first color (6" pieces) bend into anarch shape and tape down each end onto your paper strip.
  4. Repeat with second color (4" pieces), taping them just inside the first color. Repeat with your third and final color.
  5. Use stapler to secure the ends of your band together!
  6. Wear your new rainbow flag crown with PRIDE.


Download Instructions


Supplies

  • Markers or Colored Pencils
  • Shrinky Dink Paper
  • Pin Backs
  • Pencil
  • Hot Glue Gun & Hot Glue Sticks

Steps & Instructions

  1. Take shrinky dink paper and draw your design
  2. Cut out designs
  3. Place on a baking sheet in a pre-heated 325 degree oven for 1-3 minutes
  4. Carefully remove from oven.
  5. Glue on pin backs using a hot glue gun (be careful)
  6. Let the glue sit and chill for a few minutes
  7. Wear with PRIDE.



Supplies

  • Glue
  • Scissors
  • Pens
  • Piece of Cardboard
  • Accents: Colorful papers, wrappers, stickers, sequins, yarn, and other fun things

Steps & Instructions

  1. Draw a rainbow on your piece of cardboard
  2. Cut your paper into small pieces
  3. Start gluing
  4. Cut out your rainbow
  5. Display with PRIDE.


 

View All DIY Storytimes

 

 

Read

Available through hoopla Digital

 

Watch

The Most Magnificent Thing:  Based on the book by Ashley Spires and narrated by Whoopi Goldberg. A young girl receives a tool kit as a gift and decides to make something magnificent for her faithful dog companion but the creative process proves more challenging than expected.

 

Sing

I Like You from Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, inspired by Mister Rogers Neighborhood
I like you, I like you, I like you
Just the way you are!


Now try singing it about yourself:
I like me, I like me, I like me,
Just the way I am!

 

Who You Are is Important to Me!
To the tune of London Bridge
I am me. And she is she.
He is he and they are they.
I am me and xe is xe.
Who you are is important to me!


Rainbows I See!
To Frere Jacques/Brother John
Red and orange (red and orange)
Yellow and green (yellow and green)
Blue, indigo, and violet (blue, indigo and violet)
Rainbow colors, I see! (rainbow colors, I see!)

 

 

Activity

Make a Mermaid Crown like the one in Julian is a Mermaid

Download Instructions

 

Create Your Own Paper Doll

Download Instructions

 

More Books

Books on Hoopla

 

Books on Overdrive/Libby (note: These titles may have a waiting list.)

 

Keep Learning

hoopla allows you to borrow movies, music, audiobooks, eBooks, comics and TV shows to enjoy on your computer, tablet, or phone – and even your TV! With no waiting, titles can be streamed immediately, or downloaded to phones or tablets for offline enjoyment later. We have hundreds of thousands of titles to choose from, with more being added daily. hoopla is like having your public library at your fingertips. Anytime. Anywhere.

 

 

Download this DIY Storytime



 

View All DIY Storytimes

 

 

Read

Available through hoopla Digital

 

Watch

Nature Cat: Tally Ho! A Rainbow! After a rainstorm (Nature Cat is sure glad it's over!) Daisy wants to capture a picture of a rainbow for her Granny Bunny who just loves rainbows! But finding a rainbow is easier said than done, as the four friends trek all over in search of it!  

 

 

Sing

Rainbow Colors to the tune of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” 

First comes red and orange too 

Shiny yellow, green, and blue 

Purple ends the pretty rays 

Only seen on rainy days 

First comes red and orange too 

Shiny yellow, green, and blue 

 

Watch Video of Song Online

 

Bubble, Bubble, Pop! 

One little red fish 

Swimming in the water, 

Swimming in the water, 

Swimming in the water. 

One little red fish 

Swimming in the water, 

Bubble, bubble, bubble, bubble...POP! 

Verses: Increase the number and change the colour.

 

Watch Video of Song Online

 

And don’t forget Rainbow Connection from The Muppet Movie soundtrack! 

 

Activity

Make Color Changing Milk

Supplies

  • a baking pan or shallow bowl
  • milk
  • liquid food coloring
  • cotton swabs
  • liquid dish soap

 

Steps

  1. Pour about an inch of milk into the shallow bowl.  
  2. Add drops of food coloring to the milk, not stirring into the milk.
  3. Put a dish soap on the cotton swab. 
  4. Dip the cotton swab into a color part of the milk and watch the food coloring move away! 
  5. If you like, you can dip a piece of paper onto the top of the milk to make your own marbled paper.  

 

More Books

Books on Hoopla

 

Books on Overdrive/Libby (note: These titles may have a waiting list.)

 

Keep Learning

TumbleBooks 

The Tumblebook Library has over a thousand always available eBooks for elementary school students. It includes animated talking picture books, chapter books, videos, non-fiction titles, and graphic novels as well as learning activities for literacy and reading comprehension such as puzzles, games, quizzes, and lesson plans.  

 

 



 

LGBTQ2S+ Library Resources

Pride looks a little different this year with most parades either being postponed or moved online, but we are still doing our part to celebrate at the Library. If you don’t know the history, on June 28, 1969 there was a clash between LGBTQ2S+ people and cops at a gay bar called the Stonewall Inn. While there is much debate as to whether this event should be called a riot, rebellion or uprising, who threw the first brick at the cops, or whether it was in fact a brick, a stone, or even a handbag; what isn’t up for debate is the lasting impact that this event had for the LGBTQ2S+ community and America. In celebration of this event, Pride now takes place every June and is a time for people that identify as LGBTQ2S+ and their allies to celebrate self-affirmation, dignity, equality, and their increased visibility in the world.

One of the topics that is always discussed around this time is representation. Representation is so important for minority populations because it gives us a way to see ourselves in the media that we consume. This not only makes us feel seen and accepted, when we so often feel othered, but it also can help increase acceptance and information exchange. The Library actively strives to create diverse and inclusive collections for this reason. So, if you are interested in reading the rainbow, you can check out these great sites for lists of different types of books that represent the LGBTQ2S+ community. Also keep an eye out on our website and social media for more resources throughout the month.

The Library is also a great way to connect with resources when you are needing help. So whether you are a member of the LGBTQ2S+ community, a family member, an ally, or are just interested in learning more about resources and issues facing the community, you can check out these sites for more information.

LGBT in OKC: A Brief History of the Oklahoma City LGBT+ Community

Ward 2 City Councilman James Cooper, the first openly LGBT member of Oklahoma City's city council, talks about the history and struggles of the LGBT+ community in OKC.

 

 

LGBT History: The Arrest of Paul Thompson

In this month's podcast we hear the story of the arrest of Oklahoma City gay rights activist Paul Thompson and his fight in court.

 

 

LGBTQ History and Pride in OKC

Freedom Oklahoma's Allie Shin and City Councilperson James Cooper talk about the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Oklahoma City and the city's Pride celebration.

 

Library Magazines

The Advocate

The Advocate has been the definitive news source for America’s LGBT community since 1967. Every issue, The Advocate keeps you involved and informed on everything that’s important to you in LGBT news, politics, culture and entertainment. You’ll enjoy our intriguing interviews with important gay and lesbian newsmakers, plus you'll enrich your life with our regular coverage of gay travel, finance, fitness, and style. Now available with the cool convenience of digital delivery. Now expanded with exclusive video and slide show in every issue.

 

OUT

Out is America's premiere general interest and style magazine for gay men. Sexy, smart, and sophisticated, it inspires readers with captivating feature stories, striking fashion layouts, and lively entertainment reviews. Out. Discover what's in. Filled with interviews, fashion, travel, celebrities and more for gay life today.

 

Library Database

Archives of Sexuality and Gender

The Archives of Sexuality and Gender is the largest collection available in support of the study of gender and sexuality, enables scholars to make new connections in LGBTQ history and activism, cultural studies, psychology, health, political science, policy studies, and other related areas of research.

Visit Database

 

LGBTQ2S+ Resources

  • Trans Lifeline - Trans Lifeline’s Hotline is a peer support service run by trans people, for trans and questioning callers. Operators are located all over the U.S. and Canada and are all trans-identified. 
  • The Trevor Project - the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ2S+ young people ages 13–24. 
  • Crisis Text Line - Text CONNECT to 741741 

SISU Youth Services
overnight emergency shelter, hot meals, clothing, and case management to youth experiencing homelessness, ages 16-24. 

Phone: 405-459-7478   |   Website

3131 North Pennsylvania Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73112

 

The Homeless Alliance 

Main Contact and Resource Center: 

Phone: (405) 415-8410 

1724 NW 4th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73106 

OKC Day Shelter: 

1729 NW 3rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73106 

 

City Rescue Mission 
provides shelter, medical care, dental care, vision assistance, GED courses, job placement services and more for youth ages 15-24. 

Phone: (405) 232-2709 

800 W. California Ave Oklahoma City, OK 

Primary Health Care 

Diversity Family Health 

(405) 388-2258   |   Website 

2242 NW 39th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73112 

 

OU Medicine & Health Equality Coordinator 

(405) 271-6488   |   Website 

 

Revan Health

(405) 896-7975   |   Website

5601 NW 72nd St, Ste 142, Warr Acres, OK 73132

 

Trust Women Oklahoma City Clinic

(405) 429-7940   |   Website

1240 SW 44th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73109

 

Mental Health Care 

Bright Eyes Family Services
LGBTQ2S+ affirming provider of mental health care. 

(405) 810-5554   |   Website 

4334 NW Expressway, Suite 211, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 

 

Cedar Ridge
Community Mental Health agency providing services to children and adults, even via zoom 

(405) 605-5982   |   Website 

6501 N.E. 50th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73141 

 

Diversity Center of Oklahoma , Inc.
Gender Diverse & LGBTQ2S+ Community Resource Center 

(405) 848-0026   |   Website 

1211 N. Shartel, Suite 606, Oklahoma City, OK 73103 

 

NorthCare
Community Mental Health agency providing services to children, adults, and families. 

(405) 858-2700   |   Website 

2617 General Pershing Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73107 

 

Pride Books, Movies, and More

 

Pride Events

PRIDE Creative Writing Chapbook

6/1 @ 9:00am
to
6/18 @ 6:00pm
Warr Acres Library
Library Branch: Warr Acres Library
Room: Online+ Curbside (Warr Acres)
Age Group: Teens, Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Books & Reading, Cultural Experiences, Take-Home Kit, Writing
Event Description:
Have you always wanted to explore creative writing but never had the chance? Pick up one of our Pride-themed creative writing chapbooks filled with creative writing exercises centered meant to strengthen your creative muscles! ...

DIY Pronoun Pin Take-Home Kit

All Day6/3 - 6/10
Downtown Library
Registration
Library Branch: Downtown Library
Room: Online + Curbside (Downtown)
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Community & Civics, Cultural Experiences, DIY & Hobbies, Family Programs, Take-Home Kit
Registration Required
Seats Remaining: 12
Event Description:
Celebrate Pride Month by creating your own pronoun pins! Sharing your pronouns helps to create a more inclusive space for trans and non-binary folks....

Disclaimer(s)

Warning: Kit contains small parts that could represent a choking hazard. It is not intended for children under 3. It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Bag.

We can only guarantee one kit per registration.  Please register individually to ensure that kits are appropriately distributed.  Special notes should not be used for additional registrations.

Thank you for your help!

It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Kit.

Pride Trailblazer Kit

All Day6/4 - 6/10
Capitol Hill Library
Registration
Library Branch: Capitol Hill Library
Room: Online + Curbside (Capitol Hill)
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Cultural Experiences, Take-Home Kit
Registration Required
Seats Remaining: 30
Event Description:
Celebrate Pride Month with a family-friendly kit! Kits will include a pride flag, pronoun pin, stickers, coloring pages, and reading lists to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ trailblazers who paved the way and made history. ...

Disclaimer(s)

Warning: Kit contains small parts that could represent a choking hazard. It is not intended for children under 3. It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Bag.

We can only guarantee one kit per registration.  Please register individually to ensure that kits are appropriately distributed.  Special notes should not be used for additional registrations.

Thank you for your help!

Celebrate Love Pride Take Home Kit

All Day6/4 - 6/10
Ralph Ellison Library
Library Branch: Ralph Ellison Library
Room: Online + Curbside (Ralph Ellison)
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Take-Home Kit
Event Description:
Celebrate Pride month with this take home kit! A mega packed take home kit full of booklists, PRIDE button, stickers, word searches, matching games and much more! Love is Love! Kits are first come first serve.   ...

“Pride Denied” Candle Pouring Party!

June 4, 2023
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Warr Acres Library
Registration
Library Branch: Warr Acres Library
Room: Meeting Room A (Warr Acres)
Age Group: Teens, Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Community & Civics, Cultural Experiences, DIY & Hobbies, Film & Movies
Registration Required
Seats Remaining: 20
Event Description:
Celebrate Pride Month and pour your own soy candle! While we make our candle, we'll watch "Pride Denied," which tells the story of how corporate sponsors co-opted the concept of LGBTQ pride, turning it into a feel-good brand and blunting its radical ...

Tweens & Teens Take and Make Kit: Yarn Rainbows

6/5 @ 10:00am
to
6/18 @ 6:00pm
Southern Oaks Library
Registration
Library Branch: Southern Oaks Library
Room: Online + Curbside (Southern Oaks)
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Take-Home Kit
Registration Required
Seats Remaining: 12
Event Description:
Create your own yarn rainbow! Each kit will contain everything you need, instructions, and a reading list. It might be helpful to have scissors and a hot glue gun. ...

Disclaimer(s)

We can only guarantee one kit per registration.  Please register individually to ensure that kits are appropriately distributed.  Special notes should not be used for additional registrations.

Thank you for your help!

Rainbow Needle Punch Patches

June 8, 2023
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Northwest Library
Registration
Library Branch: Northwest Library
Room: Meeting Room A (Northwest)
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Registration Required
Seats Remaining: 12
Event Description:
Make a cute, fluffy rainbow patch for your backpack or jacket! Use it to display your PRIDE or just for a fun splash of color to liven up your bag or outfit. The possibilities are endless with the craft of needle punch, and the designs you create wil...

Rainbow Needle Punch Patches

June 10, 2023
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Northwest Library
Registration
Library Branch: Northwest Library
Room: Program Room (Northwest)
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Registration Required
Seats Remaining: 12
Event Description:
Make a cute, fluffy rainbow patch for your backpack or jacket! Use it to display your PRIDE or just for a fun splash of color to liven up your bag or outfit. The possibilities are endless with the craft of needle punch, and the designs you create wil...
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