Being an LGBT ally can be simple

Dear Alli,

I would like to know, what are the best ways to be an ally to an LGBTQ person?

Thank you,
Ashley Spaulding
Oklahoma

Dear Ashley,

This is a wonderful question, as so many times people want to know how they can help, and what the best way to do so is. I am going to give you more information in regards to being an ally to the transgender community, though many of these things work well for many of the aspects of the LGBTQ community.

When it comes to the transgender community, one of the biggest things that allies help with is to truly understand who we are. We are humans that want to be seen as any other person in society. People who are transitioning or who have completed their transition want to be called by the name they choose as well as the proper pronoun. 

If you are talking to people who are not gender conforming, many of them do not wish to use pronouns like He/Him/She/Her, but instead they prefer to use They/Their/Them. The aspect of needing to know how people like to be addressed is a big issue. It not only helps others hear and recognize, but it also helps affirm identity for the individual. 

You can also go to support groups or community functions that are LGBTQ focused. In most communities across the U.S., there are PFLAG (Parents, Family, and friends of Lesbians and Gays) meetings. There are also equality groups that you can join; in many cases this can be something you can volunteer for, helping to contact political people and organize events or other activities.

I would also suggest using key words in your search such as LGBTQ Ally (state or city), Transgender Ally, Transgender Support, and LGBT Equality. 

Being an ally to the LGBTQ community in so many ways can be as simple as accepting those around you, letting them share their story, being there to listen to them talk and share situations and then being there to just give a hug at times. 

One person who has been a huge ally is Sara Cunningham in Oklahoma City. Things that Sara has done have helped, like giving out free hugs, talking to people and letting people know that it is OK to be Christian and support the LGBTQ community. In Oklahoma, there are many ways to get involved. 

I want to thank you for wanting to be an ally or wanting to learn more about it. As a transwoman, it speaks volumes to me and others that we have one more person on our side. We can always use as many allies as we can. Thank you.

Alli

Copyright The Gayly - 9/18/2016 @ 11:36 a.m. CDT.