Pride Month: How to be an Awesome Ally

mattprintpt
Jun 23, 2023
2 min read

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

Expand your knowledge by learning about LGBTQ+ history, experiences, and issues. Understanding the struggles and triumphs of the community will enable you to engage in meaningful conversations and challenge misconceptions. I will share a list of resources at the end of this blog post.

2. Listen and Learn

Create a safe and non-judgmental space for LGBTQ+ people to talk. Be an active listener when LGBTQ+ individuals share their stories and experiences. Acknowledge their emotions and avoid making assumptions. Remember, it's not the responsibility of LGBTQ+ individuals to educate others, so approach conversations with humility and respect.

3. Use Inclusive Language

Language holds immense power. Make a conscious effort to use inclusive language that respects people's gender identities and pronouns. Ask and use the correct pronouns when in doubt. Practice using gender-neutral language when addressing groups of people. This small change has a huge impact helps create a more inclusive environment.

4. Support LGBTQ+ Organisations

As we have done with Pride month, support organisations that champion LGBTQ+ rights and provide valuable resources to the community. Attend local Pride events; remember Pride is a protest. Consider donating to or volunteering for local LGBTQ+ centres, support groups, or youth organisations. Share their work and initiatives on social media, attend their events, or participate in fundraising campaigns.

5. Stand Up Against Discrimination

Whether in person or online, challenge homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia whenever and wherever you encounter them. Speak out against derogatory jokes or slurs, and be a vocal advocate for equality. Use your privilege to amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals and call out injustices. Remember, allyship is not just passive support; it requires action.

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.