Tips to be an Ally

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8 Steps

Each individual might have their own definition of the term

Women who are sexually attracted to women*

stands for Lesbian

'L'

Coming out and talking about the issues can be a very difficult thing to do. So listen to your loved one. Do not react in a violent way because this will inculcate fear in them. Be calm and listen to everything they have to sa. Understand their emotions and let them know you are alwas there to listen to their problems.

STEP 1: LISTEN TO THEIR STORIES AND EMOTIONS

BE A LISTENER

Each individual might have their own definition of the term

Men who are sexually attracted to men*

stands for Gay

'G'

It can be a difficult thing to understand what your loved one is going through. Keep an open mind and listen to what they have to say. You might have a difficult time digesting everything they have to say. Bit being broad minded and understanding all the new concepts is going to help you become closer to them and become a better ally.

STEP 2: BE CONSIDERATE OF NEW TERMS AND UNDERSTAND THEM

BE OPEN-MINDED

Each individual might have their own definition of the term

A person who is sexally attracted to both sexes*

stands for Bisexual

'B'

Just because they have come out to you, doesn't mean they have become a totally different person. They still want to hang out with you and go to the mall and eat their favourite ice-cream. Don't exclude them from any plans. Han-out eith them, make them feel comfortable. Tell them that nothing has changed. This will strengthen your bond and also help them not feel lost and lonely.

STEP 3: INCLUDE THEM AND HANG OUT LIKE USUAL

BE INCLUSIVE

Each individual might have their own definition of the term

A person whose gender identity does not correspond to the person's assigned biological sex*

stands for Transgender

'T

Do not assume a person's sexuality just by the way they dress or talk or act. Talk to them. Ask them what they identify as and what pronouns they would like others to use. A small gesture like this can make them understand that you are doing everything in your power to make them feel comfortable. So never assume. Just ask polietly.

STEP 4: JUST BECAUSE THEY DON'T SAY ANYTHING, DONT ASSUME THEY ARE STRAIGHT/QUEER

DON'T ASSUME

Each individual might have their own definition of the term

Originally a derogatory term used for Homosexual individuals, since been adopted as an inclusive term for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community*

stands for Queer

'Q'

People often don't realize how a certain term could offend someone. Especially for the LGBTQIA+ community, there are quite a few words that people use to refer them as, which are considered rude. Make sure that you are aware of what terms could potentially make your loved ones feel offended. This small step can help them not feel neglected.

STEP 5: MAKE SURE YOU KNOW WHAT IS A SLUR AND WHAT IS NOT

DON'T USE OFFENSIVE TERMS

a person who has an indeterminate mix of primary and secondary sex characteristics*

stands for Intersex

Each individual might have their own definition of the term

'I'

More info

Homophobia is a very serious act of cruelty. Everytime you see or hear someone treat your loved one in a disrespectful manner, make sure you stand up for them and speak out. This act of kindness will help your loved one feel like they have got support and will also make them feel safe in that environment.

STEP 6: DEFEND YOUR LGBTQIA+ FRIEND AGAINST DISCRIMINATION

STAND UP

A person experiencing no or little sexual attraction to people*

Each individual might have their own definition of the term

stands for Asexual

'A'

Even when we act in a certain way, sometimes our mind has some internalised biases which show through unintentionally. Keep in mind to reviewe your thoughts while you talk and also apologize if you act biased. It is going to be a difficult thing in the beginning but you will slowly learn and evolve.

STEP 7: EVEN IF UNCOMFORTABLE, CONFRONT YOUR OWN PREJUDICES AND BIAS

BE WARY OF UNINTENTIONAL BIAS

Each individual might have their own definition of the term

stands for all other sexualities, sexes and genders*

'+'

If you ever come across any kind of misrepresentation of LGBTQIA+ community in the media or unfair practice against them in the society, make sure you contact the authorities regarding this. Contact your nearest LGBTQIA+ friendly NGO or glaad.org

STEP 8: IF YOU SEE ANY MISREPRESENTATION OR DISCRIMINATION, CONTACT THE OFFICIALS

CONTACT AUTHORITIES