Being an LGBT+ Ally: Why It Matters

Being an ally to the LGBT+ community isn’t just about waving a rainbow flag during Pride Month; it’s about standing up for equality every day, in ways both big and small. I believe that everyone should feel able to be themselves, whoever they are, so I see allyship as a responsibility, not just a choice.

What Does It Mean to Be an Ally?

An ally is someone who supports and advocates for people, even if they don’t identify as part of the community themselves. This means challenging discrimination, amplifying voices, and fostering safe, accepting spaces where everyone can be their true selves.

Allyship is about listening, learning, and using our own voices to give support. It’s about recognizing privilege and using it to create positive change.

 Why Is Allyship for the LGBT+ community Important?

1    LGBT+ people still face discrimination

Despite progress in many parts of the world, LGBT+ individuals still encounter prejudice, from workplace discrimination to hate crimes and legal inequalities. Allies help push for change by calling out injustice and supporting policies that protect LGBT+ rights.

2    Mental health and wellbeing

Many LGBT+ individuals experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, and even suicide due to societal stigma and rejection. A supportive ally can make a world of difference by offering kindness, understanding, and acceptance. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is on their side can be life changing.

3    Stronger, More Inclusive Communities

A society (and especially a workplace) where everyone feels safe and valued benefits us all. Inclusion strengthens our workplaces, schools, and communities by fostering diversity of thought and experience. When we stand up for LGBT+ rights, we contribute to a culture where everyone has the freedom to be themselves.

How I've been an ally

I was an ally before I knew there was a name for it. Over the years, I’ve been involved in several ways.

I joined the DIO LGBT+ network very soon after I started working here, but before that I was one of the founding members of the LGBT+ Network at Wolverhampton Homes. I was asked to be a part of it because of my comms role (that was just over 10 years ago) and that’s when I started my journey and learned so much! We set out to become a Stonewall inclusive employer, which was a lot of work, making sure policies were fully inclusive and that LGBT+ employees felt seen and supported. And we succeeded!

While I was there, I was invited to speaking at the Stonewall Conference about how we’d succeed on a shoestring budget. Having the opportunity to speak was a moment of pride for me. It was a chance for me to really be seen as an ally and to contribute to important discussions on LGBT+ inclusion and equality.

Attending Pride Events – Pride is a celebration, but it’s also a statement of resilience and visibility. Attending Pride parades and events has given me the chance to show up in solidarity, celebrate diversity, and continue learning from the community itself.

At DIO, I’ve been secretariat for the LGBT+ network for a few years and I’m honoured to have been asked to be interim co-chair!

I was so proud to have been nominated for ‘Ally of the Year’ at the LGBT+ Defence awards last year, it gave me another opportunity to be visible as an ally and highlight the importance of allies. I didn’t win, but it was lovely to be shortlisted.

How can you be a better ally?

You may feel overwhelmed by reading the kind of things I’ve done, but public speaking and setting up networks isn’t necessary, you can be an ally by making a few small steps:

Educate yourself – Learn about LGBT+ history, terminology, and issues. The more informed you are, the better support you can offer. Join the network and take part in our calls – we’re very friendly and are happy to be asked any questions.   

Listen and amplify – Give space for LGBT+ voices and experiences, rather than assuming what they need. Invite the network to give a presentation at your team meetings (we’re also developing ‘grab and go’ inclusion moments that you can use).

Challenge discrimination – Speak up when you witness homophobia, transphobia, or any form of discrimination, whether online, in the workplace, or in social settings.

Use inclusive language – Respect people’s pronouns and identities, and encourage others to do the same.  Add your gender pronouns to your signature block too.

No one is a perfect ally, and that’s okay. I’m still learning, and I still make mistakes - allyship is definitely a journey.

What matters is a willingness to learn, grow, and stand alongside the LGBT+ community in the fight for equality. Every action, whether big or small, helps to build a more inclusive world.

Christine, Co-Chair LGBT+ Network