Guidance on Being an Effective LGBTQ+ Ally

How to Enhance Your LGBTQ+ Allyship

Supporting the LGBTQ+ community might feel daunting, but showing love, understanding, and respect can make a significant difference. Below are the key dos and don'ts for becoming an educated ally.

Educate Yourself

Do: Learn and use appropriate LGBTQ+ terminology, like those listed by the University of Massachusetts. Knowledge equips you to be a better ally. Don't: Avoid using 'gay' or similar terms as derogatory language; change negative habits.

Respect Identities

Do: Respect and use correct pronouns and names. If unsure, it's polite to ask. Don't: Don't belittle someone's pronouns or imply difficulty in using them, and never diminish a person’s identity expression.

Honor Sexuality and Gender Identity

Do: Embrace and normalize LGBT relationships by showing genuine support and understanding the distinction between sexuality and gender identity. Don't: Avoid minimizing or dismissing LGBT individuals with well-intentioned but harmful comments.

Advocate for Safe Environments

Do: Be an active ally by participating in Pride, creating inclusive spaces, and challenging intolerance. Don't: Allyship should be consistent across all environments and not just in LGBT spaces.

Improve Communication

Do: Listen to and validate LGBT experiences, offer support, and stand up for the community, even in their absence. This also helps you stay informed. Don't: Remember, communication is key to understanding and advocacy.