Be An Ally

It doesn’t matter what month it is, it costs nothing to support others! At Psych Me Out, we support and are an ally to those in the LGBTQ+ community! For those that may be unfamiliar of communities such as “LGBT” or “queer,” here are a few things to know.

LGBTQ+ is an inclusive phrase used to identify individuals of different sexual orientations. (Please refer to our “Gender vs. Sex” post to learn more about gender verse sexual orientation). It stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer. The + symbol represents others who identify within the community though may have less common identities such as demisexual, intersex, asexual, and fluid. As allies, it is important that we help to create safer spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals. Here are some tips to do so.

• SEE SOMETHING. SAY SOMETHING.

  • Speak out when you hear someone use hate speech or when you see someone being discriminated against.

• GET INVOLVED.

  • Be an ally by joining LGBTQIA+ organizations, participating in events year round, and voting for politicians who support LGBTQ+ rights.

• USE NEUTRAL AND AFFIRMING LANGUAGE.

  • Make conscious efforts to use gender neutral language (e.g., saying "partner" instead of "boy/girlfriend").

  • Refer to others using one's correct pronouns.

• EDUCATE OTHERS.

  • Teach friends, family members, and colleagues about LGBTQ+ history, concerns, and ways to create safe spaces.

• SHOW RESPECT.

  • Respect each person's identity.

  • When inquiring about things you do not know, ask respectfully.

  • Remember, we are all unique. We all love the same.