We Are Stronger Together!

Being an ally means lending support, becoming an advocate, and amplifying the voices of those that need it most. More than ever, it is vital for the LGBTQIA+ community and LGBTQIA+ allies to focus their collective efforts on trans youth, those within the community that are most vulnerable in the face of mounting anti-trans legislation.

In June 2023, DoSomething launched Stronger Together as part of our Louder Than Ever Pride programming, where members shared their tips and advice for how to be better allies for their LGBTQIA+ peers! They spoke out against discrimination and shared how one can support the safety of the LGBTQIA+ community, which is crucial, considering that 84% of transgender and non-binary youth do not feel safe in schools.

1. Give Space

You may be part of a sports team, a club in school, or even a virtual book club. The best way to build a community of safety and inclusivity is by inviting your LGBTQIA+ peers into the fold to participate or joining LGBTQIA+ spaces to make your own circle more queer-friendly.

Hear it from Jennifer,

“From my own experience, I have made so many friends who I would never have known if I didn't join these spaces.”

2. Lend Support Through Small Gestures

Support comes in all shapes and sizes, and this DoSomething member believes that,

“Not everything has to be a grand gesture, or explicitly queer support. Encourage us to cut our own hair when our parents won't let us; tell us we should dress how we want, even if you find it weird. Self-acceptance can only come after support- it's very few of us that are able to find that support from within, and even fewer who get it from an outside source."

Well said Sam! Understand that your queer friends, especially those who may be navigating a gender transition, may be experimenting with new clothing or language on an almost daily basis. Your support and encouragement, even the small gestures, goes a long way as this may be just what they need to feel safe to fully express their authentic selves.

3. Advocate for Trans-Inclusive Policies

Progress is often non-linear. While policies like marriage equality have expanded rights for the LGBTQIA+ community tremendously, trans members of the community faced an uptick in anti-trans legislation with 586 active bills
in 49 states (yes nearly every state) as of November 2023. Perhaps the most transformative way you can be an ally is to advocate for trans-inclusive policies in your local community where your voice can have a major impact. And with the passage of legislation in each community, this helps create a ripple effect elsewhere that can bring about a tipping point for legislation nationally.

4. Build Trans-Friendly Educational Environments

We can’t assume that students or even our teachers have the knowledge or skills to create welcoming spaces for our LGBTQIA+ peers especially as our understanding of gender and sexuality continues to change. To ensure that schools remain a place where trans students are supported in their learning, you can speak up with your school board about the need for more culturally competent curricula in your district as well as regular diversity, equity and inclusion workshops and training for students and teachers alike.

5. Never Make Assumptions

“As someone who is feminine presenting, but goes by they/them, being an automatic "she/her" in a conversation chips at me. It wasn't until someone decided to call me "them" without actually knowing my pronouns that I felt seen, understood. It was then that I decided I would use they/them for anyone I am with or talking about rather than using the "standard" she/he. Because at the end of the day, it can be the little things that makes an LGBTQIA+ youths' day!”
- DoSomething member AveryRose, 16.

Your trans peers may not use pronouns that match their current gender presentation. As a good rule of thumb, don’t just assume their pronouns without asking. While it may feel uncomfortable to ask, checking in to ask their pronouns rather than assuming will demonstrate an openness to their journey and your commitment as an ally.

6. Celebrate The Full LGBTQIA+ Rainbow

"Because I wish that I was given that when I became a part of this community.”
- DoSomething member Michael, 18.

Like all identity, queer identity is intersectional and doesn’t fit into a neat box. Too often trans youth, queer youth of color, bisexual youth or other marginalized identities don’t find the same acceptance in the queer community that others have been afforded. Whether you yourself are straight or queer, use your power and privilege to welcome all LGBTQIA+ people.

7. Amplify Their Voices

Too often, the stories of LGBTQIA+ people are silenced or misrepresented. To create a community of care for our LGBTQIA+ peers (and everyone) we must listen to and lift up their stories. This can include following LGBTQIA+ activists, artists, and content creators on social media, sharing their work, and participating in events or initiatives that uplift and center their voices. You can get started by checking out our Uncensored reading list of banned books from LGBTQIA+ authors to ensure their stories and lived experiences are celebrated.