There are lots of types of allies.
Allies, in short, are people who stand with a specific group of people who could be vulnerable to discrimination in society, such as the LGBTQ+ community.
While allies are often people who support, but are not apart, of the LGBTQ+ community, those who are within the community can be allies too-- such as somebody who is gay being an ally to somebody who is bisexual.
In a world where more people are straight than not, being a part of the community can be hard at times... Being an ally can make life a little bit easier.
There are many ways to be an ally to members of the LGBTQ+ community.
1. Be a listener.
The best way to figure out how somebody is feeling and how you can help them is to be communicative.
2. Reassure somebody that their sexual orientation doesn't change your opinion of them.
Coming out to somebody takes a lot. If they do come out to you, they may feel nervous that you may view them differently and your relationship may change. Make it obvious that you care and will always be there for them-- that their orientation doesn't make you see them any differently.
3. Defend them if need be.
We live in a society where, unfortunately, prejudice is still a part of human nature and there are still people who may not accept, or maybe try to harm others. Assure your friends and family in the LGBTQ+ community that they are never alone. Always keep an eye and ear out if something somebody is doing seems out of the ordinary or if someone may be in danger or uncomfortable.
4. Don't assume sexualities or genders.
No matter how well you may know somebody, they can always be hiding something for you. Some people may still be working on coming out and need all the support they can get. Assuming they are something they aren't may slow down this personal process of acceptance.
5. Be outspoken about what you know.
If you hear people using terms incorrectly-- educate them. If you hear someone using a term inappropriately (like an insult), kindly correct them. Be willing to talk to people.
6. Understand you may have a privilege and you may not understand everything.
Privilege doesn't mean perfect life. It doesn't always mean wealth or advantage. Privilege, in this case, means there are things you just won't have to deal with that others do. You may have other things to cope with, but if you are straight in a predominately straight area, there are things you will never feel first-hand that somebody in the LGBTQ+ community does. Think of it like if you're standing outside in the rain in a raincoat next to your friend who is just wearing shorts and a t-shirt. You both witness the rain and you're both at the same risk of danger, but you aren't getting as wet as your friend because you are in a raincoat. You can feel the rain and you may still get wet, but you may not have to deal with wet clothing like your friend.
7. Speak up not over.
Be supportive and vocal about community members you care about without speaking over them. Speak with them, not instead of them.
There are lots of things you can do to be an ally, and being there for someone, no matter the connection, is KEY.
In a world where discrimination is still very real, it's important to be there for one another, just how you'd like someone to be there for you.
