Even though the LGBTQ community has made great progress in terms of human rights and social acceptance, there’s still a long way to go in the world of education and mental health.
In particular, many transgender people struggle with homelessness and suicide, even after undergoing sex reassignment surgery or having their preferred genders legally recognized. This doesn’t have to be the case.
Here are five ways you can help the LGBTQ community thrive instead of struggling in society.
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Show Your Support
It can be challenging for members of the LGBTQ community to thrive in today’s society. They are often discriminated against because of their sexual orientation and gender identity. They may not have family support or a safe place to live.
Many also experience violence or bullying, especially transgender people and those who identify as nonbinary or queer. The best way to help is by showing your support for them in words and deeds.
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Be an Ally
It’s important to be an ally for the LGBTQ community. There are several ways you can help. For example, you can educate yourself on what being an ally means. Find a local in your area and attend a meeting.
You can also show support by attending or volunteering at Pride events. Be patient with people who disagree with you or have different perspectives. Also, volunteer your time and skills to LGBT organizations in your area.
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Educate Yourself and Others
There is still a long way to go for LGBTQ people, but we’re making progress. The first step in helping is education. Learn about different ways of thinking about gender and sexuality and how they intersect.
Try not to make assumptions about what someone’s gender or sexuality might be based on their appearance. You can also help by listening and being an ally, as mentioned above. If you see discrimination, call it out.
And finally, always keep an eye out for organizations that provide resources or support for LGBTQ people. You can find centers in your area and educate people about their medical needs.
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Stand Up Against Discrimination
The first step to helping the LGBTQ community thrive is . The world can’t be a better place for all of its citizens until we all recognize that everyone deserves fair treatment, equal rights and opportunities, and a chance at happiness.
Second, we have to support people who are struggling with their sexual identity. It’s never easy coming out as gay or trans, especially in more conservative communities where being anything other than heterosexual or cisgender is often seen as unacceptable.
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Support LGBQ-Owned Businesses
You may be thinking that you’re not in a position to make an impact, but maybe you need to rethink. There are plenty of ways you can help support the LGBTQ community. One easy way is by supporting their businesses.
Supporting these businesses will help them thrive and also provide a safe space for members of this community. We need to show love and acceptance when someone tells us about their struggles rather than rejecting them because it’s not what we would do.