Developing as an Ally
"I write for those...who do not speak, for those who do not have a voice because they were so terrified, because we are taught to respect fear more than ourselves. We've been taught that silence would save us, but it won't."
--Audre Lorde, poet
--Audre Lorde, poet
In the Spring of 2011, a group of LGBTQI elders from the Olympia community met on our campus to share their experiences and wisdom with SPSCC students. One of the questions asked by the audience was, "How can I effectively support my LGBTQI students as a straight person?" The answer was emphatic and unanimous: Straight mentors are crucial supports to students who identify as LGBTQI. Non-heterosexual young people have learned to survive in a hetero-centric culture that teaches them they are "abnormal." A straight mentor who has taken the time to become culturally competent in LGBTQI issues and who expresses acceptance and support to a queer student can be a powerful source of validation.
Check out our "What Works for LGBTQI Students" for more ideas on developing as an ally, and see the following resources to continue your own development. The Office of Diversity and Equity is committed to ongoing professional development in this area; check our blog for updates.
Check out our "What Works for LGBTQI Students" for more ideas on developing as an ally, and see the following resources to continue your own development. The Office of Diversity and Equity is committed to ongoing professional development in this area; check our blog for updates.
University of North Carolina-Charlotte's Safe Zone website is an excellent source of information:
Safe Zone Allies Includes information on:
- Common LGBT Student Issues
- Coming Out
- Ally Development
- Heterocentrism/Heterosexism/Homophobia
- Combating Homophobia
The Office of Diversity and Equity thanks the Multicultural Resource Center at UNCC for their generosity in allowing us to use their website and resources!