4. Educate yourself on LGBTQ issues
Take the time to research issues that the LGBTQ faces and educate yourself on LGBTQ identities. (There’s an extensive list of terminology at It’s Pronounced Metrosexual.)
Make an effort to use the correct terminology and preferred pronouns. Watch movies, read literature on the LGBTQ community and get to know the history of inequality that LGBTQ people have faced.
By showing an interest in improving our understanding of LGBTQ issues, we can begin to spread knowledge to the people in our lives and start the conversation.
5. Look at your own biases
We all have our own biases, whether they are conscious or unconscious, but we can work to change them and become more inclusive by being honest about them and addressing them as they come up.
We can start the process toward open-mindedness through education and awareness, listening to other people’s opinions and CONSTANTLY challenging our own thoughts.
Additionally, straight allies can address bias by speaking out against LGBTQ slurs or jokes and having conversations with our own loved ones if we hear them make discriminatory remarks.
