I'll start this with a short disclaimer. This article may be triggering for some people due to discussion of prejudice, so please proceed carefully.

As I am a part of the LGBTQ+ community and not an ally, I am semi-educated but I do not know everything. If you have any questions about the topic of this article, please do some research. We only learn new things if we educate ourselves. Who knows what else you could find while looking?

Here are a few words and their meanings that I believe a good ally should know and understand.

- Heterosexism - this is a word meaning the assumption that everyone is/should be straight.

- Biprejudice - this means someone has harmful and predetermined ideas about another simply because they are bisexual.

- Transprejudice - this means someone has harmful and predetermined ideas about another simply because they are transgender.

- Heterosexual Privilege - this means someone has the privilege to be themself without fear of violence, judgment, or degradation simply because they are straight/heterosexual. An example: being able to show affection to your partner of the opposite gender.

First, never assume something about a person's gender or sexual identities. This can be harmful to people who are do not fit the norm. Not all individuals are the same, and this includes their sexuality. There are many different types of sexualities. For me, heterosexism is very harmful. It feels like someone is trying to take away a part of my identity and doesn’t care about who I am, my struggles, or my journey.

As many of you know, June is Pride month, though Pride is not just a "month thing". But do you know that one in five LGBTQ+ individuals will experience a hate crime of some form in their lifetime? For me, that number is too high. No one should ever have to experience these heinous acts. I would like to raise awareness today and everyday in the name of my LGBTQ+ friends and everyone who struggles because of this. Take a second to put yourself in their shoes.

These people have had stones/bricks thrown at their houses, been assaulted in more ways than one, and are abused simply because of who they are, and the words listed above are some reasons for this terrible treatment. Someone once said something that stuck with me: "You can choose your friends but not your family." The same applies to sex and gender. You cannot choose your biological sex or your gender, but you can choose your gender identity expression. You can pick who you want to be and I hope that everyone has the opportunity to do so one day without any restrictions.

Remember a few key things to guide you in being a good ally.

- Don't Assume
- Support Equality
- Stay Informed
- Use Your Voice
- Come Out As An Ally
- Ally Is An Action, Not A Label
- Be Honest

I'm not an expert by any means but I hope this tickled your brain. Remember, always do your own research as you may find even better information out there. Staying educated is a great way to be a good ally. Until next time