Pride Month is a month dedicated to the celebration and commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) pride that began after the Stonewall riots, a series of gay liberation protests in 1969. As we observe Pride this year, here is a reminder from the Trevor Project of what it means to be an Ally and promote wellness in the community all year long.
From https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/guide/allyship-in-action/
Educate Yourself
We should never stop learning, because education can help save lives. It’s important to educate yourself, so that the burden of education isn’t on the LGBTQ+ people you want to be an ally to. Luckily, there are a lot of resources that can help you know more about the LGBTQ+ community.
Support LGBTQ+ Young People
- Be a safe space when discussing difficult topics and utilize empathetic listening practices such as reflecting language, validating experiences, staying present, being non-judgemental and expressing care, concern and encouragement.
- Use colleagues’ pronouns correctly and consistently. Model sharing pronouns in meetings, in email signatures, and on web platforms.
Advocate for LGBTQ+ People
Through advocacy at all levels of government, public education, and litigation we leverage our expertise and cutting-edge research to advance protective policies, increase public support, and create the world each LGBTQ+ young person deserves. This includes efforts to…
- Protect LGBTQ+ young people from the dangerous practice of conversion “therapy.”
- Ensure trans and nonbinary young people can access the care they need and live as their authentic selves.
- Create safe and affirming school environments.
- Ensure the nation’s 988 Lifeline is able to adequately and competently support LGBTQ+ young people in crisis.
Be a Visible Ally When Working With LGBTQ+ Young People
- Introduce yourself with your name and pronouns. Invite others to do the same.
- If you’re able, decorate your space with items that signify allyship. This could be a pronoun button, a flag, or a poster of an LGBTQ+ film or artist.
- Do not tolerate bullying or harassment in your space at all. If bullying
or harassment happens, enact consequences and hold the person causing harm accountable. - Talk positively about LGBTQ+ people. Even in instances where it’s not appropriate to share their identity, this can show allyship. Always condemn acts of erasure if you’re able.
- Encourage visual cues of allyship, such as ‘safe space’ stickers or rainbow flags.