Being an LGBTQIA+ ally goes far beyond a title or a show of support during Pride Month. People who do not fit into categories like lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual people can fill a crucial role when it comes to advocacy and public awareness. Whether that advocacy and awareness happens online, in person, or both, it’s a component of the ongoing struggle to challenge biases and reduce stigmas.
In any social justice movement, there is a goal related to acceptance. But things go further when acceptance starts to morph into a state where allies recognize how they also benefit from a kinder, gentler world. True allyship means listening, learning, speaking up, and showing up — even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s about using your voice and actions to create safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone. Let’s dive into what it really means to be an ally and how you can move from passive support to meaningful advocacy.
7 Ways You Can Recognize a Committed LGBTQIA+ Ally
What are the attributes and characteristics that define a legit LGBTQIA+ ally? For starters, here are 7 elements and factors to consider:
- Being an ally is not a low-key decision. You respectfully but firmly “come out” as someone who is here for the long haul.
- Run your own race. It’s not about imitating other allies — although you can learn from them. Bring your unique gifts to the table and get busy.
- Do your homework. Every movement has far too many who misrepresent the issues because they didn’t get informed. But even when you know your stuff, it’s never an excuse to speak over or for someone who is living the reality.
- Understand that you will likely be misjudged and perhaps even threatened. We live in a consciously polarized society, and it takes time to connect with people who disagree.
- You make new friends, learn from them, and (like any good friend) enrich their lives.
- You lead by example and thus, you inspire others to take steps they may have never previously considered.
- You’re not a single-issue activist or person. You support all oppressed humans, even if it means you have to defy hive minds and echo chambers.
How to Become a Committed LGBTQIA+ Ally
At follow-up on the list above, let’s break things down into a call to action:
- It starts with connection. All the online theories in the world can’t replace face-to-face communication and connection. It’s tempting to stick within the parameters set by your geographical location or the algorithm’s commands. To do so is to miss out on so much.
- Challenge your conditioning. In some areas, we all have open minds. In other areas, well, we don’t even realize certain viewpoints and lifestyles exist. You don’t have to march in lockstep with anyone, but new doors open when you stop reflexively judging.
- Because it’s geared toward profit, online life is designed to keep us herded into like-minded tribes. When you push past this artificial limit, you get an idea of how much there is to learn. From there, it’s your obligation to share what you’ve learned to help others see the world with new eyes.
- It’s not all theoretical. When you align yourself with oppressed peoples, you can find yourself in some unexpected positions. Your internal values can become externally obvious when you step up to defend and protect someone facing discrimination, harassment, or worse.
What If It Feels Daunting to Step Into Such a Role?
If so, you’re not alone. We live in a culture that seems to reward those who don’t get involved. Where’s the guidebook we all need to become an active, aware human? Your heart may be in the right place, but you could use some guidance when it comes to mindset. Connecting with a therapist who gets it when it comes to LGBTQIA+ issues is a giant first step. Let’s talk about this soon!
