How You Can be an LGBTQIA+ Ally all Year Long
In reality, being an ally is something you are, not something you do. In a time that seems to be filled with hate, violence, and intolerance, the LGBT community needs its allies more than ever. Fortunately, you can be an ally any day of the month, any month of the year. You can be an ally at home, school, work, and anywhere else. You don't have to mark off days on your calendar to be an advocate or show your support.
What Does LGBTQIA+ Mean?
That's a lot of letters so let's define what each one stands for.
L = Lesbian, G = Gay, B = Bisexual, T = Transgender, Q = Queer or Questioning, I = Intersexual, and A = Asexual or Ally. The '+' represents any other identity or label that doesn't fit in the heterosexual/cisgender box.
Why is it Important to be an LGBTQIA+ Ally in Austin, Texas?
Like any other marginalized group in our country, the LGBT community has its own unique set of needs and rights that are often overlooked, withheld, or seen as undeserved (e.g., same-sex marriage, gender-affirming healthcare, adoption, anti-discrimination protections, etc.).
Currently, in Texas, there are no laws that protect people from discriminating against those who identify as LGBTQIA+ in areas like housing, employment, and accessing certain services.
How to be an LGBTQIA+ Ally all Year Long
Here are seven tips on how to be an ally all year long.
Tip #1: Learn and Use Inclusive Language and Terminology
As humans, we like to put things in nice little categories, and our language around LGBTQIA+ issues reflects that. Learn the terminology that is preferred among LGBT members and doesn't exclude people from conversations.
- Say 'all genders' instead of 'both genders,' or 'opposite sex.' This acknowledges the existence of more than two genders.
- Say 'gay' instead of 'homosexual.' The term homosexual is indicative of a diagnosis and no one wants to be labeled by their diagnosis.
- Say 'transgender people' and 'cisgender people' instead of 'normal people.'
- Say 'Good morning, everyone,' instead of 'Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.'
Tip #2: Respect Pronouns
Addressing people by their preferred pronouns is respectful and inclusive. It's so easy to do. We use people's preferred pronouns every single day.
Tip #3: Share Your Own Pronouns
Sharing your pronouns normalizes identifying and talking about gender.
Tip #4: Check Your Values & Beliefs
Learning how to be an LGBTQIA+ ally often starts with self-reflection and a willingness to challenge old narratives.
Tip #5: Speak Up
Challenge the people around you when they make degrading jokes or comments about the LGBT community or its members.
- If someone makes a joke, say something like, 'I don't get it, explain it to me.'
- Phrases like, 'Don't talk like that,' or 'That's enough' gets the point across that bigotry isn't acceptable.
- Let the person know that you have friends and family in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Tip #6: Be Comfortable with Discomfort
Learning something new can result in lots of mess-ups.
Tip #7: Educate Yourself
Most LGBTQIA+ people don't mind telling you about themselves and their own experiences, but it's up to you to educate yourself.
Let's Get Started With LGBTQIA Therapy in Round Rock, TX or Austin, TX
If you're ready to be an ally, still have some uncertainties about supporting your fellow humans, or are in need of an ally, reach out to us today.
- Contact Hope for the Journey
- Meet with a caring therapist
- Start receiving the support you deserve.