How to Be a Good Ally to the LGBTQ+ Community

benandteds
Jul 31
3 min read

In a world where many LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination, exclusion, and violence, being a good ally is not just helpful—it’s essential. Allyship goes beyond passive support; it’s about standing with LGBTQ+ people in ways that are visible, respectful, and proactive.

Here’s how to be an effective ally and contribute meaningfully to equity, safety, and inclusion.

🧠 1. Listen and Learn from LGBTQ+ Voices

Listen without interrupting or questioning someone’s identity or experiences.
Respect confidentiality—what someone shares with you might not be for everyone.
Read and watch LGBTQ+ media, including books, podcasts, films, and documentaries.
Follow LGBTQ+ activists and educators on social media for real-time insights.
Avoid asking invasive questions—do your own research when possible.

💬 2. Use Inclusive and Respectful Language

Ask and use correct pronouns (e.g., “they/them,” “she/her,” “he/him,” etc.).
Respect people’s chosen names—even if you knew them by a different name in the past.
Avoid gendered language like “ladies and gentlemen” when speaking to a group; use “everyone” or “folks” instead.
Don’t assume identities based on appearance or behavior.
Practice correcting yourself if you slip up—and move forward without making it about you.

🛑 3. Speak Up Against Discrimination and Bias

Call out harmful jokes or slurs, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Challenge stereotypes when you hear them—in person or online.
Educate others using facts and empathy, not shame.
Stand with LGBTQ+ people in situations where they might not feel safe or supported.
Don’t wait for someone to be present to defend them.

🗳️ 4. Support LGBTQ+ Rights and Policies

Vote for inclusive candidates and legislation at all levels of government.
Advocate for inclusive education, healthcare access, and anti-discrimination protections.
Sign petitions, attend town halls, and contact representatives about LGBTQ+ issues.
Support organizations that protect and uplift LGBTQ+ communities.
Educate yourself on key issues like trans rights, youth protections, and workplace equity.

📢 5. Center and Amplify LGBTQ+ Voices

Share LGBTQ+ creators’ work, stories, and businesses on your platforms.
Invite LGBTQ+ people to speak or lead when planning events or projects.
Give credit where it’s due—don’t take ideas or language from queer people without acknowledgment.
Step back when necessary and let LGBTQ+ individuals lead the conversation.
Be mindful not to dominate discussions about LGBTQ+ issues with your own experiences.

🏠 6. Create Inclusive Environments Wherever You Are

Add pronouns to email signatures, name tags, and bios to normalize it for everyone.
Provide gender-neutral bathrooms and inclusive forms at work, school, or events.
Celebrate LGBTQ+ culture, not just trauma or struggle.
Incorporate inclusive language in policies, training, and documentation.
Display symbols of support (e.g., pride flags, stickers, ally statements)—but back them up with action.

🗓️ 7. Show Up All Year, Not Just During Pride Month

Support LGBTQ+ businesses, creators, and organizations year-round.
Check in on LGBTQ+ friends regularly—not just when they’re in crisis.
Continue learning after Pride ends—stay engaged in the issues that matter.
Resist performative allyship—don’t stop showing up when it’s no longer trendy.
Advocate for change in your workplace, community, and government even when it’s difficult.

💡 8. Stay Humble, Be Accountable, and Keep Growing

Accept that you’ll make mistakes—it’s part of growth.
Apologize when necessary without defensiveness.
Don’t center your guilt—use it as fuel to do better.
Welcome feedback from LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.
Keep checking your own biases, language, and assumptions over time.

🌈 Final Thoughts

Being an ally is not about being perfect—it’s about being present, persistent, and proactive. True allyship shows up in everyday actions, in how you treat people, in the policies you support, and in the way you help shape the world around you.

The LGBTQ+ community doesn’t need silent supporters or social media gestures. It needs people willing to listen, speak up, take action, and keep showing up—especially when it’s hard.