Contrary to what some might think, you can’t really consider yourself an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community without being consistent in your actions and support of the queer community.
Some of us might automatically put the label of "queer ally" on ourselves because we’re inclusively minded and friendly toward everyone we cross paths with in life, but it actually takes way more than that.
There are a ton of different ways to be a queer ally that allow for your true support to shine through each and every time you have an interaction. And more importantly, the queer individuals in your life and beyond will benefit.
More from LittleThings: 11 Ways Parents Can Teach Their Kids To Be Allies To The LGBTQ Community
So let’s take a look at five ways to be a queer ally that you might not be thinking about.
1. Support queer businesses and share how great they are!
Similar to supporting businesses owned and operated by people of color, it’s actually fairly easy and accessible to discover businesses that are in your area or online that are run by queer individuals.
When you shop at or pay for services from a queer-owned business, not only are you helping to support an establishment that’s small and independently operated, but it’s also helping to ensure that there is a member of the LGBTQIA+ community who is thriving.
Plus, if you can get on your social media and share what goods you were able to score and spread the word, so much the better. You will allow for everyone on your friends list to scope out what this business has to offer and hopefully make a purchase themselves.
2. Be conscious of your own privileges and use of language.
One thing that might be so deeply ingrained in a lot of us is the privilege that comes along with identifying as a straight or cisgendered person. You may not even realize it, but you likely get to walk through life without even worrying about some of the things that can affect a member of the LGBTQIA+ community on a daily basis.
With that in mind, you can make a positive contribution and concerted effort to be a queer ally by keeping that in mind and continually watching your use of inclusive language. For instance, if you meet someone new, don't assume their pronouns. It's OK to ask!
Sometimes offensive language or a sense of privilege comes out completely unintentionally through what we’ve been taught as children, so it’s vital to keep a check on that and be conscious and deliberate with the language we use every day, especially when thinking about the LGBTQIA+ community.
3. Always do your research when there’s an upcoming election.
Even though it’s 2022, we’re still fighting for things like women’s rights and trying to ensure visible minorities are supported. Go figure. The LGBTQIA+ community continually needs you to do your research before casting your vote in the ballot box as well.
Again, this goes back to checking your privilege, but there may be some things that drastically affect the queer community when it comes to elections and who you vote for at a state or municipal level.
For example, there are currently states that do not permit the use of inclusive language and teachings in school. There are also some states where members of the LGBTQIA+ community do not have access to housing and government assistance if needed, and they face discrimination when they look to legal, crime, or social services provided by their state.
All of this comes down to who was voted into your local or state government. With all of those things in mind, be sure to investigate and do thorough research as a queer ally before casting your vote in any election.
4. Watch television shows, read books, listen to podcasts, and attend events put on by the queer community.
One really fun way you can continually be a queer ally is to diversify your book and movie-watching habits and actively seek out artistic endeavors put out by members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
This can mean filling up your Netflix queue with the latest and greatest queer series and films. Or the next time you’re browsing at the bookstore, head to the LGBTQIA+ section and pick out a couple books to add to your bookshelf.
You can also grab your family and friends and check out things like various musical events or plays in your area that are being organized and put on by queer individuals.
It can be a really life-changing experience for some people to see a different perspective or life story presented to them in an artistic and engaging way. And you might even come across a truly inspirational or funny queer role model that you can share with the world!
5. Regularly donate to LGBTQIA+ organizations and charities that support queer people.
Another great way to be a queer ally who is continually trying to make a positive impact and be supportive of the LGBTQIA+ community is to seek out and donate to queer organizations and charities on a regular basis.
Going beyond organizations such as PFLAG and The Trevor Project, which are great and widely known, it’s very likely that there are LGBTQIA+ charities and organizations in your local area that could use the financial support, too.
For example, there are LGBTQIA+ youth hotlines and help centers that always need reliable support. There are camps and scholarship funds that support the LGBTQIA+ community that are continually looking for dependable donors.
Not to mention legal aids, social assistance, and educational services that consistently need those dedicated donors to step up to the plate and give.
By actively putting your money where your mouth is, not only are you showcasing your support of the LGBTQIA+ community, but you’re also giving to organizations that put queer individuals at the forefront.
