Gender Equality

How to become a better ally to members of the LGBTQIA+ community

Take 5 minutes to read the following page on how to become a better ally to support students and colleagues.

Becoming an ally means becoming informed and implementing changes to help make society a better and safer space for everyone. Being an ally does not mean giving preferential treatment, but being willing to stand up for those who are less privileged and exposed to discrimination and intolerance. The best way to show support is to act. This advice applies to everyone, regardless of gender identity and beyond decency, and can serve as a guide to support all peers and colleagues. Remember that it is okay to make mistakes, reflect, apologise, and move on.

Some tips for being a good ally

  • Lear & understand

    Learn about identities, history, and challenges of the community. Aim to understand the different terms

  • Listen without judgment

    Listen to understand people’s stories. don’t judge, interrupt, or compare.

  • Use inclusive Language

    Respect names and pronouns and avoid assumptions about sexual/gender identity.

  • Speak up against discrimination

    Challenge homophobic, transphobic, or queerphobic comments—even jokes. Stand up in social settings, such as schools and workplaces, as well as online.

  • Support LGBTQIA+ Rights

    Advocate for inclusive policies; Vote for candidates who support LGBTQIA+ rights; and support queer creators, businesses, and organizations.

  • Respect LGBTQIA+ Voices

    Don’t make allyship about your own feelings or experiences. Use your platform to amplify queer voices, not speak over them.

  • Be Intersectional

    Recognize the different challenges depending on race, disability, religion, class, etc. Support the most marginalized, including black trans women, queer refugees, and intersex people.

  • Be Consistent

    Allyship isn’t just for Pride Month or when it’s trendy. Keep showing up—even when it’s uncomfortable, inconvenient, or not “cool”.

Some specific tips for being a good ally to the trans community

Acceptance of different identities/pronouns

Correct addressing no using one’s deadname

Respectful conversation, no personal questions you wouldn’t want to be asked yourself (e.g., about genitals/operations, etc.) Avoid inappropriate comments about appearance/changes in body, etc.

Be mindful of their privacy, do not share personal information that might compromise their safety.

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