How To Be A LGBT+ Ally

An ally is someone who is heterosexual that supports and stands up for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT). Ever wondered how you could support LGBT friends and loved ones? Here are a few ways that you can be an ally:

Let your LGBTQ loved ones know that you are there to listen if they need to talk. If your LGBT friend or loved one chooses to share private and personal information about their feelings or identity, it is important to keep this information confidential. However, if a person tells you that they are going to hurt themselves or someone else, you should be sure to tell a trusted adult because that information is too serious to keep secret, even if they ask you to. By letting your LGBT friends and loved ones know that you are there to listen and support them, you are acting as an ally.

Stand up to bullying or harassing behavior. Sometimes you may notice an LGBT friend being picked on or bullied because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Or maybe you hear hateful words, jokes or remarks aimed at your friend because of their gender identity or sexual orientation. This is not okay. If you hear others saying mean things, you might say something like this: “It really makes me uncomfortable when you say negative things about LGBTQ people. What you’re saying is hurtful and insulting to them and to me because there are LGBTQ people that I care about. I would really appreciate it if you would stop.” If you don’t feel comfortable speaking up, tell an adult who can address the situation right away. Standing against homophobic and transphobic behavior through your words and actions is another way you can be an ally to LGBT people.

Join or start a genders and sexualities alliance (GSA) at your school. Getting involved with LGBT organizations or causes is another way to be an ally to your LGBT friends and loved ones. You may decide to join a GSA at your school. GSAs are student-run organizations that work to improve schools for all students regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. Visit the GSA Network to learn how you can start a GSA at your school.