Many of us like to think we are supportive of the LGBTQ+ community, but being a true ally requires a little more than being nice to the LGBTQ+ people we know. In a world where LGBTQ+ people are feeling increasingly threatened and marginalised, being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community is more important than ever.
If you're eager to become an effective LGBTQ+ ally but unsure where to start, this blog post offers practical tips and resources to help you on your journey of understanding and support.
WHAT IS AN ALLY?
An LGBTQ+ ally is a person who supports and champions the rights, equality, and well-being of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. Allies are typically cisgender and heterosexual individuals, but they can also include those who identify as LGBTQ+ themselves.
Allies play a crucial role in creating safe spaces and promoting acceptance for individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
5 TIPS ON HOW TO BECOME AN ALLY
Click on the 5 headers below to expand and find out more.
1. Educate Yourself
2. Listen and Learn
3. Use Inclusive Language
4. Support LGBTQ+ Organisations
5. Stand Up Against Discrimination
THE FINAL 'T'
Becoming an LGBTQ+ ally involves more than just good intentions. It requires action; standing up, speaking up and out against all forms of discrimination and prejudice, listening with empathy and continually striving to do better.
By taking an active role to stay up to date with LGBTQ+ issues, listening and learning, using inclusive language, supporting LGBTQ+ organisations and creating safe and inclusive spaces you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Embrace the responsibility of allyship, and together, let's strive for a more inclusive, accepting and kinder world for all.
LGBTQ+ RESOURCES
WEBSITES
- The Trevor Project (www.thetrevorproject.org )
- Human Rights Campaign (www.hrc.org)
- GLAAD (www.glaad.org)
BOOKS
- "This Book is Gay" by Juno Dawson
- "Redefining Realness" by Janet Mock
TV + FILMS
- "The Danish Girl" (2015)
- "Pride" (2014)
- "Milk" (2008)
- "Heartstopper"(2022) Netflix
- "Pose" (2019)
PODCASTS
"Nancy" - A podcast about LGBTQ+ stories and experiences.
"LGBTQ&A" - Conversations with LGBTQ+ personalities, artists, and activists.
"Making Gay History" - Chronicles LGBTQ+ history through interviews with trailblazers.
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