Allies Image

What does “Ally” mean?

In reference to the LGBT community, and ally is someone who does not identify as LGBTQI, but is both supportive of their LGBT loved ones, and is an active supporter for complete LGBT equality.

Getting Educated…

Being an ally often entails knowing what experiences and obstacles are faced by LGBT people. You might want to check out local resources and links to learn as much as you can about what LGBT people experience, and how you can be supportive. We recommend starting with www.pflag.org or Straight for Equality, and going from there.
Getting Started…

So, you just found out your ________ (fill in the blank with friend, parent, roommate, relative, co-worker, etc.) is gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender? Here are a few resources to help answer any lingering questions you might have:

Answers to your questions for a
better understanding of sexuality

Answers to your questions for a better
understanding of gender identity
 Diversity Rainbow People


Being Supportive…
Okay, so you want to be supportive! Excellent! Here are 10 things you can do to be a great Ally:

  1. Organize discussion groups at organizations in which you are a member to talk about LGBT issues.
  2. Use neutral labels like “partner” or significant other” instead of boyfriend, girlfriend, etc.
  3. Bring up current LGBT issues on conversations with friends, at work, and in your community.
  4. Interrupt anti-LGBT jokes, comments or any other behaviors that make homophobia/transphobia seem OK.
  5. Put LGBT-affirming posters at your work, community of faith, etc., and wear visible signage (buttons, t-shirts, etc.) that promote LGBT equality and straight ally visibility.
  6. Don’t make assumptions about sexual orientation or gender identity. Assume there are LGBT people in all classes, workplaces, sports, meetings, etc.
  7. Don’t assume that feminine or masculine presentations indicate one’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
  8. Again, don’t assume that masculine or feminine presentations indicate one’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
  9. Speak up for LGBT issues and rights whenever, wherever you can. Write letters to the editor, participate in marches, lend support to LGBT groups, etc.
  10. As an ally to transgender people, speak up when you hear slurs and attacks on people who express their gender outside of societal expectations. Educate people around you about the continuum of gender expression.

Also check out:
Dos and Don’ts
FAQ’s
Coming Out in Brief

For more information, check with UCCS’s local groups and organizations, as well as groups and organizations in the community to find out how you can lend your support!

Last Update: 11/22/2011