How to be an ally of LGBTQ youth?

  • Make sure your environment is safe, welcoming and affirming 100% of the time

  • Educate yourself and find resources to keep in your school or work space

  • Make sure your language (even when joking) is respectful and inclusive

  • Watch movies or TV shows with LGBTQ characters on them and keep a dialogue going

  • Be there to answer questions, offer support, or give a shoulder to cry on when needed

  • Don’t make assumptions (asking boys if they have a girlfriend or vice versa)

  • Commit to making your space free from bullying, hate speech, or discrimination

  • Donate to LGBTQ causes if you can, volunteer at your local homeless shelter or offer to take part in your community’s Pride celebration every June

  • Offer the youth hope whenever possible

  • Display pictures of LGBTQ role models in your classroom and office

  • Offer to help get a GSA (Gay Straight Alliance or Gender Sexuality Alliance) started in your school

  • Integrate LGBTQ historical figures in your curriculum