How can I be a better ally to trans people?

PONDERING on ways to enhance your support for individuals identifying as transgender?

Supporters have a crucial part to play in bolstering oppressed communities and establishing a society that is fair, secure, and with equal opportunities for all – and this extends beyond the celebration of Pride Month. Finn, a representative of The LGBT Foundation, emphasizes that being an ally is an ongoing commitment that demands dedicated effort throughout the entire year.

Therefore, regardless of whether you find yourself in mundane routines, professional settings, or surrounded by loved ones, how can you commence?

Gina Battye, an expert in psychological well-being and training, has dedicated considerable efforts to empowering LGBTQIA+ communities in professional environments. She conducts workshops specifically designed to uplift individuals belonging to any underrepresented or disadvantaged group.

"I generally discuss four main subjects: education, assistance, prominence, and commemorate," she states.

This could begin with a sense of wonder – like inquiring about certain genuine inquiries if a coworker discloses their transgender identity to you – but Battye emphasizes the significance of conducting your own research as well.

"Take initiative," she advises. "Avoid depending solely on your LGBT+ colleagues, friends, and acquaintances to enlighten you. Begin by acquainting yourself with materials such as workplace policies and procedures."

"You can heighten your understanding of your own hidden biases and discover ways to lessen or eradicate them. Watch movies and documentaries, listen to podcasts, participate in events, online workshops, or talks centered around the concepts of inclusivity or being an ally."

Aby Hawker, the creator of TransMission PR, a firm that focuses on providing communication services dedicated to trans and non-binary inclusion and understanding, also emphasizes the significance of gaining knowledge oneself – particularly regarding the topics and obstacles faced by the community.

"Transgender individuals make up only 1% of the general population. Unfortunately, they belong to a marginalized group to whom certain individuals with strong and influential voices are specifically directing a disproportionate amount of hate and inciting divisive sentiments," states Hawker, the initiator of the 'TransAlly365' movement on TikTok. Throughout this year, Hawker has been sharing daily tips on the platform to support and advocate for the transgender community.

"And there are plenty of additional tools and materials available to assist," she mentions.

Sign up for QueerAF, a media platform committed to transforming the storytelling and supporting queer individuals with remarkable abilities. Explore Pink News for the latest updates. Connect with trans and non-binary influencers like Max Siegel (@theyrequeer) and Ben Pechey on Instagram and LinkedIn. Immerse yourself in Shon Faye's illuminating book, the Transgender Issue.

"Comprehend the distinction between reality and falsehood," Hawker adds. "Numerous tactics aimed at diverting attention and instigating 'cultural conflicts' are responsible for fueling a substantial portion of the anti-trans discourse."

Finn suggests: "Gaining knowledge about the main concerns surrounding the availability of gender-affirming medical care and transitioning within society is beneficial. Additionally, advocating for non-binary legal acknowledgement and less complicated gender recognition procedures, as well as recognizing the harm caused by divisive 'culture war' discourse, can make a significant difference."

Finn also recommends exploring the writings of authors and creators who identify as trans or non-binary: "A few individuals worth beginning with include Shon Faye, Travis Alabanza, Fox Fisher, Abigail Thorn, and Natalie Wynn."

Battye suggests: "The aim here is to comprehend the encounters of the LGBTQ+ community. It is important to actively listen to the personal stories of your friends and colleagues. Pose inquiries such as: what do you face while working or socializing, or during your commutes or vacations – that sort of stuff. And then, inquire: how can I be of assistance and offer support? These are basic queries that many individuals tend to overlook."

Take into consideration the nature of your requests.

I abide by a simple guideline: If you wouldn't pose that inquiry to your grandmother, refrain from posing it to an individual within the LGBTQ+ community!

Battye continues, stating, "You grasp the concept. Avoid inquiring about things you wouldn't inquire from someone who identifies as heterosexual or cisgender."

Finn suggests: "Pay attention to the encounters shared by transgender and non-binary individuals without doubting them, specifically when it comes to instances of transphobia or prejudice. We possess the knowledge about our own journey and can distinguish between harmful discrimination and well-intentioned inquiries."

You don't have to completely comprehend someone's identity to show them respect, which includes using their preferred pronouns. If an individual discloses the terminology they prefer to describe themselves and their gender, please honor it.

And what if you unintentionally utter the incorrect statement?

"Finn suggests promptly apologizing and continuing without dwelling on it," Finn advises. "There's no need to blow it out of proportion!"

You can also demonstrate your support by being open to speaking with people around you and enlightening them about various problems and difficulties, as well as providing guidance on how to be supportive.

You can begin by simply disseminating the knowledge you're acquiring, which is an effortless task to undertake.

Another aspect to consider is being mindful of exclusionary attitudes during conversations. If you happen to witness or hear others engaging in exclusive behavior, and you feel it is suitable and you are at ease, then voice your opinion. It could be as straightforward as expressing statements such as, 'I don't believe that's suitable,' or 'I think we should alter the course of this conversation.'"

Battye suggests that engaging in private conversations with individuals is more effective than publicly confronting them.

Avoid addressing the issue in a public manner. Instead, find a suitable moment to privately engage in a conversation about the inappropriateness of discussing certain topics. Initially, they may not be aware of their lapse, and publicly confronting them can lead to considerable embarrassment. Moreover, doing so openly contradicts the objectives you are attempting to achieve.

And in the event that you are the one being exclusive: "Offer an apology, rectify your mistake, and proceed with the discussion," advises Battye.

"Stop digging yourself into a pit of problems and perpetuating it!"

Take some time to reflect on what this experience is revealing to you. Is there any prejudice or advantage that you should be more conscious of?

"Engage in self-reflection to ensure that you don't repeatedly fall into the same pattern of error," she advises.

Being visible means showing others that you are supportive and aligned with them, according to Battye. There are numerous ways in which you can achieve this in professional and educational environments, like including your pronouns in email signatures or wearing badges and lanyards that promote inclusivity. Actively demonstrating your support can also involve attending networking and community events.

Lastly, rejoice – discover significant festivities, consciousness occasions, commemorations, and so on.

"This is the part that many individuals tend to skip, neglecting the other components, which can often lead to frustration!" explains Battye. "However, it is indeed important to commemorate this achievement alongside your coworkers [and acquaintances]."