BE A BETTER TRANS ALLY
Happy Pride Month!
It’s been a minute since I’ve spent time on this blog. That’s because I’ve been investing time in my awesome clients, helping them advance Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. As we celebrate Pride Month this June, if felt like a good time to share some tools and resources to support you in becoming a better ally to the transgender and non-binary community. 🏳️⚧️
According to GLAAD’s 2023 Accelerating Acceptance report, 91% of non-LGBTQ Americans agree that LGBTQ people should have the freedom to live their life and not be discriminated against. That is encouraging news! Yet, 50% of non-LGBTQ Americans say that trans and non-binary are new or unfamiliar to them. Here are some steps to help change that:
Understand the difference between SEX and GENDER: To begin, let's consider the difference between sex (external/physical) and gender (internal/identity+experience). The Trevor Project explains more on page 5 of their Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Young People.
Respect every person’s NAME and PRONOUNS: Our names are core to who we are... Using the correct names and pronouns signals respect for the gender identity of trans and non-binary people. If you make a mistake, acknowledge it, apologize and commit to doing better. Learn more on page 7 of the Trevor Project’s Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Young People.
Seek out and listen to Trans STORIES: We all have a story. Listening to and believing the experiences of transgender and non-binary people can lead to acceptance and understanding. 🩵🤍🩷 PFLAG has curated a reading list for adults. (NOTE: lack of understanding is no excuse for lack of acceptance.)
Pay attention to Trans NEWS across the country and around the world: It is critical to stay informed about what is happening in the US and beyond. From legislation targeting trans youth to hate crimes, better awareness can guide your action. Politico offers coverage in the US and you can create a google alert for global news.
ELECT leaders who will protect and advance Trans equality: To advance and protect the transgender and non-binary community on the policy front, support and vote for people who believe in and will push for LGBTQIA+ equality. That is the mission of Equality PAC.
Use your VOICE to advocate on Trans and Non-Binary issues: Amplify the voices of transgender and non-binary people, while keeping them centered in the conversation. The National Center for Transgender Equality has helpful resources.
Advance Transgender inclusion in your workplace: Is your workplace trans-inclusive? Share the toolkit developed by the Human Rights Campaign with your manager and human resources team. It provides practical information and strategies.
Have questions? Please reach out.
Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash