International Allyship Day: how to support LGBTQ+ people right now

In recent months alone, the landscape of LGBTQ+ rights and representation has evolved significantly across the globe. As we progress through 2025, being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community has never been more critical. With the right education and understanding of the core principles of allyship, people can feel empowered to support their LGBTQ+ friends, family members, colleagues, and communities effectively.

This article and the accompanying downloadable resource will provide essential insights into allyship, practical steps for supporting the LGBTQ+ community during this time.

Understanding Allyship

Allyship refers to the active, consistent practice of using one’s privilege to advocate for and support marginalized groups. This is particularly important in the context of the LGBTQ+ community, where systemic discrimination and social stigmas can create significant barriers to equality.

Key Principles of Allyship

Listen and Learn: Understanding the experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals can help allies become more empathetic. Engage with LGBTQ+ voices through books, films, podcasts, and discussions. Stories from the community highlight real struggles and victories.

Use Inclusive Language: Language evolves, and so does the terminology related to gender identity and sexual orientation. Familiarize yourself with preferred terms (like pronouns) and avoid stereotypes or assumptions.

Advocate for Policies: Support legislation and policies that promote equality and protect LGBTQ+ rights. Whether at the local or national level, your voice can help create systemic change.

Support LGBTQ+ Organizations: Engage with and donate to organizations that focus on LGBTQ+ rights. Volunteering time or resources can amplify the efforts of those working for equality.

Create Safe Spaces: Whether at work, school, or home, strive to create environments where LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe and valued. This involves challenging discriminatory behavior and holding others accountable.

Practical Steps for Support

1. Educate Yourself

Allyship begins with education. Take the time to read books, watch documentaries, or attend workshops about LGBTQ+ history and current issues. Recommended readings include: “The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle” by Lillian Faderman and "Transgender History” by Susan Stryker.

2. Engage in Conversations

Start conversations about LGBTQ+ issues with friends, family, and colleagues. Use these discussions to raise awareness and challenge misconceptions. Remember to be open to learning and creating dialogue without dominating the conversation.

3. Stand Up Against Discrimination

Whether in the workplace, at school, or in social settings, speak out against homophobic or transphobic remarks and actions. Support bystanders through your actions and let others know that hate has no place in your community.

4. Normalize LGBTQ+ Representation

Support LGBTQ+ representation in media, politics, and other spheres. Lift up LGBTQ+ voices, stories, and perspectives, whether through social media, community events, or personal recommendations.

5. Be Mindful of Privilege

Recognize your privilege and understand how it can both create barriers and open doors. Reflect on how this privilege can be leveraged to support LGBTQ+ individuals in your community effectively.

To further deepen your understanding and commitment to allyship, consider downloading our eBook, “Allyship 101: Supporting LGBTQ+ People Right Now.”

This resource offers:

- In-depth chapters on the history and current state of LGBTQ+ rights
- Practical tips and strategies for effective allyship
- Personal stories from LGBTQ+ individuals and allies that highlight transformative moments in the journey toward support and change
- Resource lists for further reading and engagement

Download the resource at the bottom of this article.

To mark International Allyship Day, myGwork will be hosting a panel later this month dedicated to exploring the various ways allies can show authentic support to the LGBTQ+ community. Sign up for 'Becoming an Ally: Active Support in the Workplace' panel here.