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LGBTQ History Month: 5 Ways to be an Ally
June is LGBTQ history and pride month. In a landmark decision on June 15th, 2020 the US Supreme Court decided in Bostock v. Clayton County (17-1618) An employer who fires an individual merely for being gay or transgender violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Living in California this law already in place, now it is the law of the land in the United States of America. An important step for inclusion, equal rights for all. Despite the positive strides toward change, it can be easy to forget that many people still experience discrimination and are persecuted simply because of their sexual orientation and presentation. There is still a lot of work to be done and you can be part of the change.
According to a 2016 survey by the Center for American Progress, one out of four LGBT people (25.2%) said they experienced anti-LGBT discrimination in the past year. Discrimination routinely affects the ability of LGBT people to find and keep a job, find a good home, and be active in their communities. According to the 2017 National School Climate Survey, more than half of LGBTQ youth experienced verbal harassment and about a quarter were physically bullied.
Here 5 Ideas of Things YOU can do to support societal change towards LGBTQ people:
- If you are a manager and hire people, consider creating more diversity on your team. It’s proven that diverse teams create a higher return on investment than teams comprised of people of the same race and sex.
- If you overhear somebody making a joke that demeans a member of the LGBTQ community, consider speaking up. There’s no need for an argument but speaking up that you find the statement inappropriate might change the dialogue on our society long-term. You might also encourage others to speak up by modeling courage and being a role model.
- Should you notice that you are uncomfortable with the way a person expresses their homosexual or transsexual identity, ask yourself why this is bothering you. Some self-exploration can help you grow and analyze, possibly change, your behaviors.
- When you cast your vote during elections, consider a candidate’s position on LGBTQ issues. Change happens in many different ways, politics is one of them.
- If you can afford it, make a donation to an organization that supports LGBTQ causes. There are many organizations that focus on different aspects and you can pick one that meets your purpose. Just one example is the Trevor Project.
And 6, if you are especially motivated during this LGBTQ month, consider mentoring an LGBTQ youth or support an LGBTQ elderly person. One option to find mentoring opportunities for youth is the National Mentoring Resource Center.
Therapy2Thrive is proud to support all people in their desire to live their best lives possible.
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