It is not enough for us to be just accepting of all genders and sexualities anymore. Not being vocal about the rights and against the mistreatment of the LGBTQIA+ community, is as bad as denying it. However, stealing the spotlight from people in the community is also a rising problem.
So, we need to find the best to support the LGBT community without stepping on their toes. And the best way to support them on their journey is to be an ally. The word ally is used a lot in the LGBT community and online. So, let’s learn what it actually means.
What is an LGBTQIA+ ally?
An ally is a person who stands up and supports people around them. So, an LGBTQIA+ ally is a straight or cisgender person who is willing to support people belonging to the LGBT community. They try to make the world better and fairer for the people belonging to the LGBT community.
So being an ally means that you are supporting the people in the community to reach a common goal. The common goal for people in the LGBTQIA+ and allies is to reach a point in society where there is no discrimination. So, to attain that allies fight alongside LGBT+ individuals to help them attain the goal.
How to be a good LGBTQIA+ ally?
It is time for us to learn to be better at being an ally. So here are four simple ways you can do to be a better ally for the LGBT+ community:
Listen and Learn
We first need to learn and listen to our friends and family who belong in the LGBT community. We need to learn about their history and how are they treated out in the world. Learning about their past and present struggles will help us be a better ally to them.
While learning about the community, learn from books, podcasts, videos, and stories of people who belong in the community. Ask the right questions and continue learning.
Amplify their voices
You as an ally must amplify the voices of the people of the community than speaking for or speaking over them. Often the stories and experiences of LGBTQIA+ people go unheard. So, help them by amplifying their voices. Restrain yourself from speaking for them and rather share their videos, posts, and insights.
Offer support
You can offer support in many ways. You can go to marches and demonstrations held by the community. Try talking to LGBTQIA+ people who are suffering around you. You can also support them by helping them connect to people just like them.
Confront discrimination
Whether it be at school, home, or work, confront people who are discriminating against people based on their gender or sexuality. It is one of the best ways to support and be an ally. Confront the people who are bullying, teasing, harassing, or are being unfair to other people. Call out people on their homophobia and transphobia. You may not be able to change their mind in a single day but either way, it helps.
Also read: Phrases You Should Not Use at A Transgender Person
