As an identifying straight person, I am in no way representative of the LGBTQ+. I in no way understand there struggle, can truly express their opinions or thoughts. But as an ally, I am supportive and loving towards this community, just as everyone else should be. But why is a straight person writing on ways to support the LGBTQ+ community, when she is not in fact gay? Because it really seems like this not enough attention has been given to this community this month, especially when it's Pride Month. There needs to be more support for this community. And not just this one, all kinds of minority groups-- immigrants, people of color, women, etc. Especially if you come from a minority community, it is your job to support others who have also not been given rights that the privilege have been given.
Even more so, if you are part of the privileged few, it is your priority to make minority groups like the LGBTQ+ community to feel welcomed and to fight against discrimination aimed at them.
It really, truly isn't that hard to be accepting. Accept that individuals can love the same gender, be non-conforming or feel no compulsion to be in sexual relationships. And if you're still clueless, literally just ask. Don't be close-minded by beliefs that you've been brought up with. So whether you already support the LGBTQ+ community or you're getting there, here's a couple ways that you can support them.
If you’re confused, educate yourself
Literally, one of the most important things you can do as a straight person. Just ask. Don't just instantly close yourself off and say being gay is a sin.
Yell at homophobes
Yes i said yell. You see someone using homophobic language? You tell them to f**k off. Do this especially if they're insulting a LGBTQ+ person. The reason you're yelling at them is to get their attention off of the person being insulted (okay, but also to yell at them because who doesn't want to yell at a homophobe?).
If you're a homophobe, no problem. I'll yell at you.
Make a move to remove gay conversion therapy
First of all, it's inhumane. Second, it's a fraud. There's literally no way to "pray the gay out". It's awful to think that this is a thing. It's even worse that people believe that it should stay. This "therapy" is manipulative, mental abuse, shaming and has no justification
Encourage organizations and companies to openly support LGBTQ+ community
Explicitly ask them: "hey, why haven't you posted anything pride related?" And if they say anything homophobic, screenshot it and post it to Twitter.
Seriously though (...although the last part was me being serious), encourage them to post LGBTQ+ stuff. Even if it's a simple "Happy Pride!".
You know someone who is LGBTQ+? Openly show your support for them
Literally don't be a homophobe when someone comes out to you. Don't even act any differently. Just accept them. It's all cool. They identify this way, you identify another way. It's whatever.
If you’re someone who still doesn’t support the LGBTQ+ community, question why
Is it because of religious beliefs? Your parent's beliefs? Identifies shown through the media? Whatever it is, question why it's holding you back from supporting these people. Because literally no reason is justifiable.