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Support LGBTQIA+
There are many ways for family, friends and community
members to support LGBTQIA+ people:
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Provide a welcoming and as safe an environment as you can. It is not possible to guarantee that a space will always be safe but it can always be welcoming.
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Talk and listen to LGBTQIA+ people with respect.
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Be a role model for kindness and inclusion.
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Avoid making assumptions about people, including about their sexual orientation or gender identity. You cannot know from looking at a person how they identify.
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Use the correct pronoun. If you don't know, you should ask or use "they/them". If you get it wrong, quickly apologize and repeat the sentence with the correct pronoun. If someone else uses the wrong pronouns, role model by using the correct one. Do not make a big fuss about it and allow the LGBTQIA+ person to address the mistake.
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Attend LGBTQIA+ community events as an ally. Include LGBTQIA+ friends and their partner in friend group activities and events, like weddings and baby showers.
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Allies should not wear clothes or accessories that would make someone think they're LGBTQIA+.
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Get involved and stay informed. Educate yourself on what an ally is and LGBTQIA+ topics. Do not expect LGBTQIA+ people to educate you. You can find resources here and a large glossary here.
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Do not assume you know what LGBTQIA+ community members want. Allow them to share what they want and support those things.
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If you see someone bullying or being disrespectful, step in and let them know that is not acceptable behavior.
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Learn stigma-free language. The Centers for Disease Control offers a list here.
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Check out this video series from our partner organization, Green Peak Alliance, here.
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Donate to local and regional organizations supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.