Let’s begin by acknowledging what ‘LGBTQ+’ stands for!

State of Pride

What is an ally?

An ally is someone who supports a community such as the LGBTQ+ community without being a part of the community themselves. 

How can we become an ally?

  1. State your stance – Whether it’s on social media or directly to someone a part of the community, let people know that you support the LGBTQ+ community. It will help people accept who they are, and feel more comfortable with coming out knowing that there are people there to support them.   
  2. Listen to the community – When speaking and learning about LGBTQ+ community, listen to stories and experiences of the community.
  3. Help those within the community – Many people within the LGBTQ+ community can be at the forefront of hate crimes or discrimination. Either from strangers or from their own family or friends. Creating spaces for people within the community to go and get support, donate, educate others and so on can help show people that they aren’t alone.

Does God Hate Me? | Queer Britain – Episode 1 

THE GRAPEVINE | A CONVERSATION WITH BLACK LGBTQ MILLENNIALS | S4E22

To become a better ally we should listen to stories, experiences and how to help those in the LGBTQ+ community. This creates a sense of security for the community as they can trust you. As well as, call out any discriminatory behaviors that other people do or say!

Show kindness and be inclusive so that people can be themselves around you. Stay informed on topics that are important surrounding the LGBTQ+ community. As well as take action when needed but ask before making any assumptions. 

Learn from past mistakes and don’t become defensive when someone calls you out on a discriminatory behavior. Support LGBTQ+ businesses, follow LGBTQ+ accounts and donate to LGBTQ+ charities and organisations. 

Religion and LGBTQ+: Embracing Two Worlds | Vincent Mascarenas 

LGBTQ + Mental Health | Sexpectations 

Overall, being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community is an important step forward to being inclusive and accepting people for who they are. Even if you don’t accept the LGBTQ+ community, the respect you show shouldn’t be any less to others.