How to be an LGBTQIA+ ally: Tips from a Queer-Affirming Therapist in Chicago, IL
Every individual person holds many different identities, and it is likely that someone in your life identifies with the LGBTQIA+ community. Despite the increased support for the LGBTQIA+ community in recent years, members of this group still face barriers and discrimination in many aspects of their lives.
What does LGBTQIA+ mean?
The acronym LGBTQIA+ stands for all sexualities and gender identities, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and allies. While the message of this phrase is meant to include all sexual identities and the wide-scale of gender fluidity, it is understood that no one term cannot encompass all the individuals who challenge social norms and the experiences they hold. Therefore, terms that best describe each person’s romantic, sexual, or gender identity continue to be created and shared across this community.
What does it mean to be an ally?
Generally, an ally is a person or group that provides assistance and support in an ongoing way. An LGBTQIA+ ally is responsible for helping the members of a community to feel supported, included, and advocated for. As an ally, you must continuously work to learn more about individuals in the community and understand both their shared and unique experiences. This knowledge aids allies in their actions to address barriers and fight for equality and justice.
How to be an LGBTQIA+ ally
Listen, learn and educate yourself
Do your own research on the history of this community
Don’t rely on the people of this community to educate you
Remain up to date on trending terms and current slang
Confirm the correct use of these words
Language Matters
Always use a person’s preferred name and pronouns
If you don’t know, ask in a respectful manner
Apologize and acknowledge when you mess up
Own up to your mistakes
Do not make assumptions
Never assume an individual’s sex, gender, or orientation
If you’re unsure, use neutral terms and ask if appropriate
Determine where and when an individual is comfortable using their chosen name and pronouns
If you’re unsure, ask if appropriate
Show your support
Speak up if anti-LGBTQIA statements are made around you
Explain how the statement is offensive and harmful
Speak up about the harm of gatekeeping for trans folx
Confront any forms of oppression that you become aware of
Correct others if they misgender someone
Challenge stereotypes that you come across
Show your Interest
Ask appropriate questions about LGBTQIA+ people’s lived experiences
Remind the person they don’t need to share if they aren’t comfortable
Make sure these are done in a safe space and remain confidential
These conversations should be with people you have established relationships with already
You Don’t Need to be an Expert to be an Ally
It is okay to not know everything about the LGBTQIA+ community, but it is important to continue to learn how you, as an ally, can best support those who identify as part of this community. Remember to always be sensitive, open-minded, and accepting when addressing the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people. If you would like more information on the ways that you can become an LGBTQIA+ ally, here are a few additional resources:
Here at Obsidian Counseling, we love what we do and we always do our best to give you the best we possibly can. If you ever need help or guidance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Begin LGTBQIA+ Therapy in Chicago, IL today
At our Chicago, IL area therapy practice, we are honored to provide space and a supportive environment for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning individuals. We provide LGBTQIA+ therapy services for youth, adolescents, young adults and college students, and adults. Get started with these steps:
Fill out a consult form here.
Meet with an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
Start authentically connecting with yourself and living life to the fullest!
OTHER SERVICES AT OBSIDIAN COUNSELING AND WELLNESS
When you work with an LGBTQIA+ therapist at Obsidian, you will be met with compassion and authenticity. Our team feels honored to help guide folks along their healing process. Specifically, we help people in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and work stress. Additionally, we value the unique experiences of highly sensitive people and young adults and are happy to help them find balance in their lives. We hope that you take the leap to begin your healing journey with our team of specialized therapists whether online or in-person at our Chicago, IL-based counseling practice.