How to be a better ally
Whether you are new to the LGBTQ+ journey, or a long-time supporter, the tips below can help you be a strong ally, in all circumstances.
Learn
Ask your LGBTQ+ friends and loved ones about their lives.
Keep up to date with LGBTQ+ news and issues.
Read, like and support pro-LGBTQ+ websites and social media groups.
Lead
Speak up if you hear anti-LGBTQ+ comments or jokes.
Use inclusive language in your daily life (see our Inclusive Language DO’s and DON’Ts guide).
Add your pronouns to emails or when meeting new people.
Post or wear pro-LGBTQ+ symbols.
Love
Include your LGBTQ+ friends and their partners at social gatherings.
Attend LGBTQ+ celebrations and events.
Treat your LGBTQ+ friends and family just like everyone else… because they are just like everyone else!
Support
Ask about ways to support them.
Join your local PFLAG or other LGBTQ+ group.
Lake Helen
Daytona
DeLand
Sanford
Join Volusia Pride as a sustaining member.
For more information online to learn or to find an organization to support, check out these great resources:
Inclusive Language DO’s and DON’Ts
DO use generalized terms for groups of people that don’t include gender like people, folks, friends, team.
DON’T use gendered labels like ladies and gentlemen or girls and boys.
DO say partner or spouse.
DON’T automatically say husband or wife.
DO use gender-neutral terms for job titles, such as police officer, chairperson, or mail clerk.
DON’T use gendered job titles like policeman, chairman, or mailman.
DO use non-gendered responses in formal situations. For example, say thank you very much.
DON’T use gendered responses like thank you, sir or thank you, ma’am.
DO try to use a person’s personal pronouns, avoid using pronouns, or use gender neutral pronouns.
I met a new person, Alex, at the meetup.
I met them at the meetup. Their name is Alex.
DON’T assume a person’s pronouns based on their appearance, ask what pronouns they use.