Why does Pride matter to us?

By GRID-Arendal

June 24^th, 2025

Working at an organisation which prides itself on being inclusive and progressive, it’s easy to forget that there are still people who feel hate and fear towards those who are perceived to be different or “unnatural”. A recent study mapping some of Arendal’s digital spaces (public Facebook pages and groups) showed that 27% of online comments about LGBTQ+ people are hateful or negative. So, we know that there’s still much to be done right here and now.

However, we know that there is nothing unnatural about being queer. Nature thrives due to diversity. Over 1500 species have been observed displaying same-sex sexual behaviour, and many don’t follow what’s considered “gender normative” behaviour. Clownfish change sex, and male seahorses will carry their young.

Common clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) in sea anemone (Heteractis magnifica), Mu Ko Lanta Marine National Park, Thailand

So why does this matter to an environmental organisation like GRID-Arendal? The effects of climate change do not discriminate, but we do know that they affect each of us differently based on our location, resources, and capacity. Members of the LGBTQ+ community face greater difficulties with housing and employment, leading to economic instability. It’s much harder to weather extreme climate events when you lack the resources to prepare and build resilience. Let alone thrive.

Arendal's flower, Wild Tulip, a "Balast Plant", Hisøy, Sørlandet, Norway

Intersectional environmentalism is therefore critical to the success of our work and making sure that a variety of needs and experiences are considered when presenting data and recommendations to policymakers. Climate activists like Greta Thunberg and drag artist Pattie Gonia encourage us to look beyond the “traditional” focus of environmental issues, and open the channels for discussion on how politics and identity need to be an integral part of our efforts too.