As a British, white, cisgender gay man in my 30s, I have grown up in an increasingly tolerant society where legal protections and rights have been afforded to me that were denied to people like me in the past. Significant victories over the past 20 years—legal (marriage equality, anti-discrimination legislation), health (better healthcare for HIV prevention and treatment), and societal (increased visibility and acceptance)—have been achieved through the tireless work of advocates within the LGBTQ+ community. Allies have also played crucial roles in amplifying our voices, increasing our visibility, and normalizing acceptance. Allies have always been, and continue to be, important.
However, because of these successes, there is a risk that we might think our work is done. That would be a mistake. For those of us who are privileged enough to be out at work and at home, able to date and marry who we choose, and thrive without hiding who we are, the work should not stop.
While we should support all members of the LGBTQ+ community, in today’s landscape, it feels particularly important to support the trans and non-binary communities. Trans and non-binary individuals face unprecedented levels of oppression and discrimination, with their rights and dignity under constant attack from the media, oppressive legislative measures, and ongoing restrictions on their access to gender-affirming care as well as facing barriers to accessing public services. Additionally, they endure heightened levels of harassment, physical assault, and even murder simply for living authentically. In this hostile environment, it is crucial for us to step up as allies to that community.
Why intra-community allyship matters
Solidarity amplifies the collective voice
Solidarity among LGBTQ+ individuals amplifies the collective voice against discrimination and inequality. By uniting, LGBTQ+ individuals can advocate more effectively for policy changes, legal protections, and societal acceptance. This is particularly crucial for trans and non-binary individuals. In the 2021 UK census, 0.5% of respondents indicated that their gender identity was different from their sex registered at birth. They make up a tiny proportion of the population, so the scrutiny they face from politicians and the media can feel like an attack on a group without enough voices or resources to fight back. As allies, we can use our visibility, resources, and platforms to uplift the voices that aren’t always being heard.
Empathy and understanding
Allyship fosters empathy and understanding within the community. As members of the LGBTQ+ community, we have often experienced prejudice firsthand and, even if we have not, we understand the stress that comes from existing outside the societal norm. We can use this experience to understand the challenges faced by other members of the community. At the same time, while our experiences may share commonalities, each group faces distinct forms of discrimination and marginalization. By actively listening to and supporting the experiences of others, we can broaden our perspective and deepen our empathy. This empathy strengthens intra-community bonds and promotes a culture of inclusivity and support where all members feel respected.
Challenging hierarchies and biases
Allyship challenges the hierarchies and biases within the LGBTQ+ community. Historically, white gay cisgender men have often been centred in LGBTQ+ progress, sometimes overshadowing the voices of other marginalized groups. This has resulted in victories for some members of the LGBTQ+ community while leaving others behind. For example, in the USA, there was a huge campaign to remove the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy from the military. The repeal of that policy in 2010 was a landmark achievement for gay, lesbian, and bisexual service members but it did not address the ban on trans individuals serving openly in the military, which remained until 2021.
By actively advocating for the inclusion and representation of trans and non-binary individuals, we can help dismantle these hierarchies and foster a more equitable and diverse community. This includes recognizing and addressing issues such as transphobia (and biphobia and misogyny) within LGBTQ+ spaces, creating safer and more welcoming environments for all. It also means guarding against and remaining critical of LGB organizations that seek to exclude or attack the rights of trans and non-binary individuals.
Fostering a sense of community and belonging
Allyship is essential for fostering a sense of community and belonging. Many LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, may feel isolated or alienated within mainstream society. By actively supporting and affirming the experiences of others within the community, we can help create spaces where all members feel seen, heard, and valued.
Examples of how to be an ally to trans and non-binary Individuals
- Educate ourselves: Learn about trans issues, experiences, and terminology; stay informed about current events and legislation that affect trans rights.
- Use correct pronouns and names: Always use a person’s chosen name and pronouns. If you make a mistake, apologize, correct yourself, and move on. Encourage others to do the same.
- Advocate for trans rights: Support policies and legislation that protect trans and non-binary rights, such as anti-discrimination laws, access to healthcare, and the right to change legal documents to reflect gender identity. Advocate for the inclusion of trans and non-binary issues in the broader LGBTQ+ agenda.
- Be visible and vocal: Speak out against transphobia and discrimination whenever you encounter it. Use your platform, whether it’s social media, community involvement, or personal interactions, to raise awareness about trans issues.
- Offer emotional and practical support: Listen to your trans and non-binary friends and colleagues and provide a safe space for them to express themselves.
- Promote inclusivity in LGBT spaces: Ensure that LGBTQ+ spaces and events are inclusive of trans and non-binary people.
- Challenge stereotypes and prejudices: Work to dismantle stereotypes and misconceptions about trans and non-binary people within the gay community and beyond.
- Support trans and non-binary media and art: Consume and promote media, literature, and art created by trans and non-binary people. Representation matters, and supporting these voices helps amplify their stories and perspectives.
- Donate to trans and non-binary causes: Financially support organizations and initiatives that provide direct assistance to trans individuals.
By being proactive allies, we can help ensure that all members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially the most marginalized, are supported and uplifted. The work is far from done, and our commitment to allyship within our community is as important than ever.
Guy MacInnes-Manby is a senior associate at Freshfields
