Ally is a VERB
This is not about “being” and ally - it isn’t an identity that you assume, it’s about taking actions that can help reduce anti-LGBTQ+, homophobic, transphobic, etc. actions and environments.
Here are some ways you can do that:
Use your privilege
- If you are a cis heterosexual person, use that privilege to make space and speak up for LGBTQ+ people.
- If you are an LGBTQ+ person who feels safe and secure enough, make space and speak up for other LGBTQ+ people.
Language
- Avoid anti-gay/anti-LGBTQ+ language, jokes and statements. Challenge them when others display this behavior.
- Be conscious of other people’s pronouns - offer yours, ask for theirs, remember them when they are shared, include them on your name tags, email signatures, and bios.
- Use gender neutral terms when discussing significant others, partners, spouses, parents, etc.
- Use gender neutral greetings like “friends,” “folks,” “guests,” "everyone," etc.
- Avoid stereotypes and be aware of your own biases.
Action/Occupation
- Don’t assume everyone is heterosexual, cisgender, and/or expresses their gender in a traditional, binary way.
- Educate yourself. Use the Books and More section of this guide to educate yourself about the LGBTQ+ community. Don't rely on the LGBTQ+ people you meet to educate you. But do reach out to the people who run USMs Safe Zone training. They would love to answer your questions.
- Create an atmosphere of acceptance and celebration of diversity.
- Provide information and referrals of resources for LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Join the LGBTQ+ community and advocate to protect civil rights, constitutional freedoms and protection from oppression and prejudice.
- Subscribe to mailing lists, social media accounts, podcast and blogs.