Show Up With Pride
Photo by Mercedes Mehling on Unsplash 10 Ways To Be an Ally Using the 10 Commitments
Now more than ever, the LGBTQIA+ community needs allies and support. With an administration in power that clearly has an agenda to take human rights away rather than expand them, queer and trans people are facing unprecedented levels of discrimination and hostility.
Pride Month is a time of celebration, reflection, and activism for the LGBTQIA+ community. For those who embrace humanism, the 10 Commitments offer a helpful framework for allyship. These commitments provide practical guidance to help individuals support LGBTQIA+ rights in a way that is thoughtful, compassionate, and transformative.
Altruism – All Slay, No Runway
Act in the interest of the LGBTQIA+ community, not for recognition or self-image. Center LGBTQIA+ voices in conversations and follow their lead. Allyship is about amplifying others, not spotlighting yourself. Support queer-owned businesses, follow LGBTQIA+ content creators, and promote their work to amplify their voices. Donate time, money, or items to local organizations that focus on the needs of LGBTQIA+ people.
Critical Thinking – Breaking Down Barriers with Brain Power
Use your critical thinking skills to challenge misinformation, stereotypes, and prejudices about LGBTQIA+ people. Educate yourself with credible sources (like The Trevor Project, PFLAG, and interACT) and be prepared to speak out against pseudoscience and false narratives. Question societal norms and ask why certain groups are marginalized. Challenge homophobic, transphobic, or otherwise discriminatory language or behavior when you see it – whether in your workplace, family, or social circles.
Empathy – Welcome Every Identity with an Open Heart
At the heart of allyship is empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Empathy helps foster a deeper connection and reduces harmful misunderstandings. Listen to LGBTQIA+ voices with genuine interest and compassion. Respect people’s pronouns and chosen names. Avoid assumptions about gender or relationships. Create space for others to share their stories without judgment. Attend a Pride event wearing a “Free Mom/Dad Hugs” T-shirt. 57.4% of queer-identifying youth have experienced parental rejection. The simple act of giving them a hug has been so important for many.
Environmentalism – Less Litter, More Glitter
LGBTQIA+ people, especially youth and trans individuals, are disproportionately affected by displacement and environmental disasters. LGBTQIA+ youth are overrepresented in the homeless population, and extreme weather events or unsafe living conditions can leave them without access to shelter, clean water, or emergency services. Environmentalism that does not account for social inequities can unintentionally leave LGBTQIA+ individuals behind. Support sustainability efforts that prioritize marginalized communities.
Ethical Development – Becoming Better Together
Humanism encourages ongoing ethical reflection. Consider how your words, actions, or silence may impact LGBTQIA+ people. Do your values align with how you treat others? Allyship is an evolving journey – commit to growing into a more inclusive and just person.
Global Awareness – Queer Lives Are Everywhere
Be aware that LGBTQIA+ rights vary dramatically across the globe. In many countries, being queer is still criminalized or dangerous. Use your voice to support international human rights and uplift global LGBTQIA+ activists and organizations.
Humility – Holding Space for Every Story
Recognize that you don’t have all the answers. Be open to correction and willing to learn. Take time to learn about LGBTQIA+ history, identities, and current issues. Read books, watch documentaries, or take online courses created by LGBTQIA+ individuals. Mistakes are inevitable; how you respond is what matters. Accept feedback with grace and a commitment to doing better.
Peace and Social Justice – No Liberation Without Queer Liberation
True allyship involves standing for justice. Support efforts to end discrimination in housing, employment, health care, and education. Advocate for equal legal rights and safe spaces for all LGBTQIA+ individuals. Connect with your local legislators to ensure that they are acting in the interest of their constituents. Sign up for AHA’s Action Alerts to provide quick and easy feedback on both supportive and harmful legislation. Attend or organize local town hall meetings. Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Understand that liberation for one group strengthens justice for all.
Responsibility – Building a Rainbow-Filled Future
Being an ally comes with responsibility. Use your privilege and influence to advocate for change. Speak out when you witness discrimination. Amplify marginalized voices and help create a more equitable and respectful society for everyone. Pride Month is an opportunity not just to celebrate, but to act.
Service and Participation – Showing Up, Speaking Out, and Creating Change
Get involved beyond symbolic gestures. Volunteer your time, show up to Pride parades, rallies, or educational panels in your community. Active participation shows that you’re not just an ally in name, but in action. Your presence demonstrates visible support and helps normalize LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
Remember that ally is a verb – actions are more powerful than words. Being an ally means showing up consistently and using your privilege to create a safer, more equitable world for LGBTQIA+ people – not just during Pride, but every day. Humanism calls us to live ethically and compassionately, grounded in reason and respect for all people. By embracing the 10 Commitments during Pride Month, allies can go beyond passive support and become active participants in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQIA+ equality. Allyship is not a title—it’s a practice.