ALLYSHIP

Written by - Sana Jain &  Harleen Bhatia.

 WHAT IS AN ALLY?

An ally is a heterosexual and cisgender person who supports equal rights,lgbtqia+ social movements.

They aim to challenge  transphobia, homophobia. 

The best definition of  'ally' comes from author Roxane Gay in her article for marie claire, I am paraphrasing here but it was something along the lines that being that an ally doesn't mean you fully understand their struggles and oppression. You take their struggle as your own.. 

  

 Allies are important because they have the power, the visibility and the voice to help shine a light on injustice and help to raise awareness, start conversations, and create change. 

 When you become an ally of transgender people, your actions will help change the culture, making society a better, safer place for transgender people. 

TIPS TO BE A GOOD ALLY.

•Be supportive and a good listener. 

•Ask them the pronouns they prefer. 

If you're in confusion, using they/them- a gender neutral term. 

NEVER use the wrong pronouns

Respect their chosen pronouns and names and use them. 

 • Be patient if your friend is exploring their gender identity.  

• Don't give 'compliments' such as: "I would have never known you were transgender. "You look like a real girl."

 "Have you considered a voice coach?"

While your intent may be well in mind, these comments can be very hurtful for them. 

• Don't use slurs such as 'tranny.'

 •Avoid saying 'I identity as an apache attack helicopter.' 

Not many people are aware of this, but often when a transgender person came out, transphobic people would reply with that.

 •Don't ask personal questions about a transgender person's genitals, surgery, or sex life. 

•Be careful about what you say. even seemingly common phrases, such as saying "that's so gay" can hurt others and be offensive.

•Don't believe in stereotypes about LGBTQ people or make assumptions about them such as thinking that all gay men wear  pink. 

•Recognise your privilege and use it to educate yourself and others.

• Be ready and willing to listen to the lgbtqia+ community.

 Listening to a  diversity of  marginalised voices can help you understand the core of any given issue.

• Don't assume someone's gender identity based on their appearance

• Never out a person without their permission. 

Consequences of doing so, can be traumatising and damaging for the person.