Actions for Allies

This means if someone introduces themselves to you using neo pronouns and a name different than the one you remember, you need to adapt to that new information! Practice with mutual friends, make yourself flashcards, or tell your pets stories about your friend until it's easy to refer to them correctly. The most important thing you can do for a trans person is respect the identity they present you with.

When someone around you uses the wrong name, wrong pronouns, or otherwise incorrectly refers to a trans person, correct them! One of the most powerful things you can do as an ally besides respecting someone's identity yourself, is to ensure the people around you also learn to respect other's identities. Whenever you can, remind people to use the correct name, pronouns, or descriptors for a trans person. Trans folks spend so much of our time dealing with these microaggressions, it really goes a long way when someone else helps out!

Given the current state of the world at large, it can be more dangerous than ever for a trans person to be known as transgender. Keep this in mind when discussing trans people in your community with others. Instead of talking about "my trans friend Bob", refer to them simply as "my friend Bob". When introducing someone, don't say "I'd like you to meet my Aunt Sally", and instead say "I'd like you to meet my Aunt Sally." It may seem like a tiny thing, but not including the word "trans" when  speaking about a person you know can make a world of difference.

Remember, when you mention someone's trans identity, you are removing that person's ability to chose for themself whether or not it's safe for them to be known as trans. No one has the right to make that choice for someone else.

With the world being what it is right now, it is impossible for a trans person to not be aware that their mere existence is often seen as controversial at best, and a threat at worst. When you hear news affecting trans folks, check in on your friends. Rather than asking how they feel about the latest threat to their mental or physical well being, simply let them know you're thinking of them and that you care. Offer to spend time with them, or if it's appropriate for the relationship you have, ask if there's something you can do to make them feel more loved and supported.

If you're looking to take more direct action, here are some things you can do to get started.

Speaking from experience, it is exhausting having to explain your existence over and over again. One of the kindest things you can do is work to educate yourself and learn more about the broad spectrum that is transgender identities. There's a ton of information out there, but here are some resources to get you started:

• My New Gender Workbook by Kate Bornstein

• Sexual orientation and gender diversity

• What is Deadnaming?The Human Rights Campaign's Transgender and Non-Binary People FAQ

• The Gender Dysphoria Bible

• Understanding Transgender People: The Basics

Collective action can be very powerful when done right! Seek out a local-to-you organization for supporting trans folks and volunteer your time if possible. If you're unable to donate time, consider donating funds! Remember that while a one-time donation is helpful, even smaller monthly donations can make a big impact! When it comes to supporting trans people, consider activism a marathon and not a sprint.

Here are some places to start looking for volunteer opportunities:

• Trans Lifeline 

• OC LGBTQ Center

• Transgender Law Center

• Advocates for Trans Equality

Here are some places where you can donate funding:

• GoFundMe or Indiegogo or Amazon Wishlists for a trans person in your community!

  • Gender affirming care is life saving, and often cost prohibitive. Trans folks often need help funding things like surgeries and other medical interventions. Be sure to check with folks you know to see if there are opportunities to provide monetary support for their transition.

• Trans Lifeline

• Transgender Law Center

• Advocates for Trans Equality

• Planned Parenthood

Look for ways you can get involved in advocating for and supporting trans-supportive legislation. Attend your local city council meetings and keep yourself aware of the political scene in your community. Attend town hall meetings and speak up for trans rights. Join a postcard campaign for local or federal elections. There are tons of ways to get involved!