How You Can Be An LGBTQ Ally All Year Long

We know that there are a lot of conversations and advocacy in June of each year during Pride Month. But as we enter 2023, we think an invitation to long-term and consistent allyship is one worth sharing.

While Pride month is important, we hear from some of our friends, colleagues, staff, and more in the LGBTQ community how allyship can feel performative or manipulative at times. Especially from large corporations pushing our marketing campaigns in favor of “Rainbow capitalism”. Here are some ways to be an ally all year long.

What Does It Mean to Be an LGBTQ Ally?

Allyship may sometimes be overcomplicated. So, to put it simply: an ally is someone who seeks to understand and support the lived experiences and concerns of folks in the LGBTQ+ community.

Additionally, an ally may also…

  • Speak out in everyday conversations against both subtle and blatant homophobia, transphobia, cisgenderism, etc.

  • Work to educate and understand the existing issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community.

  • Use language that is clear and respectful of various identities. (i.e. “gay., lesbian, transgender, pansexual, asexual, etc”)

  • Not seek to be perfect, but allow room to make mistakes along the way.

  • Encourage friends and family members to seek out more education, understanding, and advocacy.

Photo of an LGBTQ+ individual using a tablet to write. Are you interested in becoming an ally of the LGBTQ+ community? Learn from an LGBTQ therapist in Los Angeles, CA how you can support the LGBTQ+ community.

Of course, allyship isn’t a set of tasks or to-dos. But rather, a complete paradigm shift and integration of values, empathy, and understanding for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.

Consider Your Biases & Assumptions

Again, this process is not simplistic or a one-and-done sort of process. This takes deep work, curiosity, and openness to be corrected or to reconsider your perspective. This could mean noting and addressing when you make an assumption about someone’s gender. Or their identity, sexual orientation, etc. from their presentation or from the norms of heteronormativity.

Consume Content from LGBTQ+ Individuals and Educators

This tip is important, especially when unlearning things like the gender binary. Or vague and harmful stereotypes applied to the LGBTQIA community. Consuming the words, needs, and perspectives of LGBTQ+ folks is essential and important. Especially for maintaining a stance of allyship. It also shows genuine support for the community.

Support LGBTQ-Owned Local Businesses

As mentioned above, Rainbow Capitalism is becoming more common. Many corporations are simply jumping on the bandwagon of “inclusivity” because they think it will serve their company’s profits. These companies then “bottom line” following Pride Month each summer. Don’t inflate their faux-advocacy and inclusive messaging. Consider what companies, organizations, pop-ups, etc. are owned by members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Photo of a rainbow flag representing the LGBTQ+ community. Are you an LGBTQ+ member interested in supporting your community? Learn how to be an ally from an LGBTQ therapist in Los Angeles, CA.

Therapy for LGBTQ Individuals and Couples 

Here at Highland Park Holistic Psychotherapy, we provide affirming therapy for LGBTQ teens, individuals, and couples. Therapy is available in the greater Los Angeles area (and virtually through telehealth statewide in California).

You can learn more about our LGBTQ-affirming team and our services here. Or, schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation with our Care Coordinator to start the process of getting connected with one of our team members.  

Begin LGBTQ+ Therapy in Los Angeles, CA

Ready to start your healing journey with one of our LGBTQ+ affirming therapists? We understand finding the right fit is important. Our team would be happy to support and guide you from our Los Angeles, CA-based practice. To start LGBTQ+ therapy, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Contact Highland Park Therapy

  2. Meet with an LGBTQ+ Affirming therapist

  3. Start your healing journey

Photo of an individual of the LGBTQ+ community pointing to a pride flag pin on their shirt. Interested in starting therapy with an LGBTQ affirming therapist? Learn how LGBTQ+ therapy in Los Angeles, CA can help you.

Other Services Offered At Highland Park Therapy

Our team of holistic LA therapists is here to support you on your healing journey as an LGBTQ+. We provide a wide range of mental health services — both through online therapy statewide in California as well as in-person at our Los Angeles, CA office. Other services we offer include depression treatment, teen therapy, grief counseling, eating disorders, stress management therapy, group therapy, and HSP Therapy. Read more by visiting our blog, FAQ, about us, or groups page.

Jenny Walters