How to be sensitive to the LGBTQ community

My Girlfriend and I at Atlanta pride

How to be sensitive towards the LGBTQ community.

The LGBTQ community consist of people (like myself) who identify themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer. The reason for the existence of this community is because it brings together groups that are outside of social norms, because this community has experienced so much diversity and hardships throughout history. The actual culture and usage of the term LGBTQ started in the 1990s with a wide spread of social movements empowering people of these categories giving them a platform to stand on or with. Now that you know a little bit about the LGBTQ community, let’s talk about ways you can be an ally or respect these individuals and their diversities.

(Lesbian flag)            (Gay flag) (Bisexual flag)            (Transgender flag) (Queer flag)

Learn more about LGBTQ  community and the organizations.

(What should you expand your knowledge on and how)

• Learn the elements and the types of sexuality and learn about gender dysphoria
• Read up on how to be more inclusive
• Learn about the LGBTQ histories and struggles (a common misconception is that there is not much history but you’d be surprised on how far history dates back.)
• Ask someone of this community who is open and willing to talk about their identity 
• Social media is a great way to stay connected and in touch with organizations who take part in this community.

Use gender neutral pronouns and don’t be afraid to ask their preferences!

When it comes to who we are and what we are known as we seem to be a bit sensitive because we want to be respected for who we are. Asking preferred pronouns will prevent any disrespect of tensions, along with asking what someone’s sexuality is. As long as it is respectful, you won’t come off as rude, in fact you’ll have taken the appropriate measures to ensure you are being inclusive.

Gender Neutral pronouns	Gender neutrality in workplace
They, them, their...etc	Actor, server, mail deliverer, cleaner...etc

How not to ask about sexuality and pronouns	How to ask politely about sexuality and preferred pronouns
“ Um… are you a male or female”	“What is your preferred pronoun?”
“Aye so you like lipstick or cologne when it comes to your dating style?”	“ I was just wondering if you didn’t mind me asking what your sexuality is?”

(My girlfriend and I at Atlanta pride 2019)

Be mindful that your opinions are your own, but everyone is different.

The LGBTQ community are normal people who have opinions too, so the majority will respect your beliefs and opinions because we want respect too! You are allowed to believe and agree with whatever you choose, but you aren't being sensitive to the LGBTQ if you impose your beliefs on them trying to diminish or disrespect who they are. No matter what you believe everyone has basic human rights and you have to respect others and be open minded if you want to be an ally to human rights.

Be an Ally!

There are numerous ways to be an Ally to the LGBTQ community here is some to list out a few…

• Make sure your friends and family know you're an ally.
• Tell others why you support this community.
• Participate in events such as pride festivals.
• Be a vocalist with your support of social media.
• Donate to causes and organizations that are involved in the LGBTQ’s mission.
• Boycott places who are against the community. 
• Fight for the community's rights when they are imposed.
•  Step up when you see discrimination.

Check on people involved in this community.

The LGBTQ community is very populated with issues that anyone can be sensitive to. This community is more exposed to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and gender dysphoria. Providing love and support can help decrease these effects.

There are also physical issues that can come along with this community. The LGBTQ community is at a higher risk to be in fights and have sexual and physical harassment happen to them. Being active in situations that could escalate any of these things can help diffuse the tension and provide the support these people needs when faced with issues.

Most importantly see this community as humans with basic human rights!

The main thing anyone who is apart of this community whether they are public about it or not is to know that they are humans and have the same rights as everyone else. Realizing that it is not a choice to choose your sexuality or what you identify as will help you be more open- minded. Understanding that who you are and who you love, and how big and impactful that is for your life will help you go a long way in being sensitive towards these individuals!

Works Cited

https://www.wikihow.com/Understand-Gay-and-Lesbian-People

https://www.integration.samhsa.gov/pbhci-learning-community/Addressing_Health_Disparities_in_the_LGBT_Population.pdf

https://nurse.org/articles/culturally-competent-healthcare-for-LGBTQ-patients/