This week is the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network's (GLSEN) Ally Week for "students to engage in a national conversation about the meaning of allyship".
Here's what I've learned about being an LGBT+ ally over the past few years.
Don't assume heterosexuality.
In our society, we generally assume that everyone we meet is heterosexual. Often people hide who they really are until they know they are safe to come "out".
Listen before you speak. When you do speak use gender-neutral language and/or correct pronouns.
Respect how people choose to name themselves but don't use it unless you are clear that it is okay with that person. If you don't know how to identify an individual or particular group, it's okay to ask.
Educate yourself about the LGBT+ community and issues.
Attend a meeting. Go to a rally. But remember that you're being let into a space that was created apart from you so respect its purpose.
Challenge stereotypes, derogatory remarks, and jokes.
Avoid reinforcing stereotypes, remarks, and jokes that people have about LGBT+ individuals as well making them yourself.
Remember that you are going to make mistakes.
It's better to fumble your interacts than avoid them entirely. Give yourself time to learn the issues, ask questions, and explore your own personal feelings.
Recognize your own biases because it's the first step in eliminating them.
If you think you have no prejudices, it might be a good idea to spend time reflecting on that issue. The homophobia and heterosexism in our society and throughout the world are the result of hundred of years of misunderstanding and fear.
"Thoughts and prayers" are empty gestures.
For LGBT+ people, the struggle for equality is more than a Facebook status update. It's more than a picture of solidarity on a Twitter profiles. It's their lives and they deserve a dignity that the majority of us take for granted.
Don't be discouraged when change doesn't happen over night.
You may feel that the rest of the world will immediately follow suit. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Change happens more slowly than we would like.
Celebrate the small victories along the way.
They each make a difference.
