How to be an LGBTQ Ally
We are currently seeing a number of marginalized groups raising their voices for their well-deserved rights deprived to them for so long. We see protests, speeches, social media posts, and many other avenues being used for this purpose. Not being a part of these populations does not mean we do not or cannot take part in this process. Have you ever wondered how you can also support those who have been oppressed? We can definitely do our fair share to stand up for human rights and become better allies!
So, how can we be an ally?
As LaTrice Snodgrass says, “Being an LGBT ally means helping others understand the importance of equality, fairness, acceptance, and mutual respect.” We must remember that “all people, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation, should be treated with dignity and respect.”
Let’s start with education: First and foremost, doing the required research and learning the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community is crucial. This can help us be more sensitive to the cause. There are many avenues to get information; the internet is the easiest way to get going in our quest to learn more. When talking to people from the community, while it is better to ask than assume, we should be careful not to ask offensive questions as it may be traumatic for them (for e.g., their coming out experience or their dead name).
Uplift authentic voices: We can use our platform to amplify unheard voices. One of the easiest ways to do this is by starting a conversation on supporting the community. Suppose we see or hear any discriminating behavior or comment against the LGBTQ community; we can speak up and use it as an opportunity to spread awareness. Correcting those who misgender someone, advocating for inclusivity in the workplace, or raising funds for queer causes are some ways in which you can spread awareness and be an advocate for the LGBTQ community. Remember, LGBTQIA+ members are not a monolith, like any group, there are nuances and systems that exist within. Thus, it’s important to be mindful of the different factors at play, leading to marginalization (for instance, queer sex workers and queer individuals from different castes have many different experiences than the larger community they belong to)
Our privilege can be harnessed for good: Privilege in this scenario means when one has never faced any prejudice or discrimination based on sexuality or gender. Our privilege can make us feel uncomfortable. But instead of focusing on this discomfort, we can use it positively. It is important to understand that we are not responsible for the system, but what matters is how we move forward with the knowledge and awareness we have. We can start by talking to our family and friends to help them be more inclusive and accepting.
Be mindful: Last but not least, we can aim to be more intentional and mindful when we interact with members of the community. Whether that’s in our responses to jokes and forwards belittling our queer peers (hey, that rhymes!) or when we happen upon a transgender person at junctions. We do not know what their stories are and we could do better than pass judgments. We can show them that we are better than silly Whatsapp forwards or sarcastic comments that they have met before. The ultimate ally is simply one who can feel like a safe space for queer folk, regardless of their backgrounds and situational factors!
It is natural to make mistakes in this process of educating ourselves and being a better ally. It doesn’t mean we are someone who is against the LGBTQ community. Instead what we can do is correct our mistakes and keep going. As different as we may be from one another, through this process we might be able to realize the commonalities that we share.
We can also advocate beyond the barriers of social media. We can let our queer peers know that we’re a safe space, and by volunteering and donating to local organizations, providing representation in different platforms and areas of life, taking part in pride marches and protests which amplify the voices of the queer community.
“This world would be a whole lot better if we just made an effort to be less horrible to one another”- Elliot Page
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