LGBTQ Allies

What is LGBTQ?

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LGBTQ is an acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning. It can also be seen as LGBT and LGBTQ+. The LGBTQ community is an umbrella term for anyone who does not identify as cisgender or heterosexual. In essence, it is a term used to describe anyone who does not identify as 'straight', or anyone whose gender identity does not align with their sex assigned at birth.

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What is an LGBTQ Ally?

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An LGBTQ Ally is a person who is actively supporting the LGBTQ community. LGBTQ allies can be heterosexual and/or cisgender, and often support LGBTQ civil rights, transgender equality, and are often against societal discrimination against LGBTQ people. Anyone can be an LGBTQ ally, you do not even need to know an LGBTQ person personally.

Allyship takes many different forms, from supporting the LGBTQ people you know, to being an activist for LGBTQ acceptance, equity and equality. No matter how an LGBTQ ally shows their support, knowledgeability about the LGBTQ community is important for all allies.