Between unjust political moves, consistent discrimination, and endless judgment, the LGBTQ+ community is often fighting for their right to simply exist. For Black people who identify as LGBTQ+, they find themselves in a bit more complex intersectionality. 

There’s been a toxic relationship between Black queers and their places in the Black community. Even across the diaspora, we see examples of Black queers being shunned, shamed, and ultimately exiled out of a community that should instinctively hold a place for them. 

This Pride Month, we’re focusing on ways we can help the LGBTQ+ community by diminishing the queerphobia across the diaspora. Here are three simple moves you can make to fight for the cause: 

1. Actively Listen 

We cannot stress how important this is. As an ally, it’s essential to recognize that although we want to help our LGBTQ+ friends in their fight…this isn’t about us. 

Respectfully, it isn’t appropriate for us to come into their spaces and try to run the show with our own ideas or thoughts. Additionally, if we’re feeling uncomfortable for whatever reason, this is the time to put our own feelings to the side and swallow our pride. 

Again: this isn’t about us, and it’s doing a major disservice to the LGBTQ+ community to center ourselves in the middle of their fight.

That being said, one of the best things we can do as an ally is to simply listen to their needs. We’re following their lead after all; whatever shots they’re calling, we’ll be right behind them, down for the cause!

2. Speak Up

There are certain times when it’s a good idea to hold your tongue: judgemental comments on strangers’ appearances, unwarranted opinions of personal decisions, criticism that’s more harsh than constructive, etc. In those moments, yes, it can be worth it to remain quiet.

In other cases, such as blatant discrimination or back-handed comments made with ill intention, then it’s definitely appropriate to speak up against those hurtful words. The LGBTQ+ community is constantly subjected to verbal attacks; often, it’s in public settings where there can be a crowd of spectators. 

When that is the case, it’s crucial to speak up in defense as an ally. Whether you want to curse them out something fierce or calmly read them down, it’s important to let them know that they’re in the wrong. 

Even if you don’t think it’ll make a huge difference, it’ll show your LGBTQ+ friends that they have your support. It’ll also show opposers that there’s a squad ready to defend the rights and well-being of this community!

3. Money Talks 

Due to discrimination (and racism, sexism, and classism…it’s always something, right?), many members of the LGBTQ+ community aren’t granted the same privilege many of us hold. It can be more difficult for them to secure employment, housing, medical care, and a string of other beneficial services. 

Being denied a plethora of these services results in members of this community being dangerously low on funds. Honestly…it’s expensive to exist within this country when it was built systematically against intersectionality (such as the LGBTQ+ community). 

That’s why if you’re financially able to do so, it’s always a good idea to donate regularly to organizations and companies that actively work to provide for this community. Additionally, it will be a huge help to also throw in some funds to various GoFundMe campaigns that are created by members of the LGBTQ+ community. A little bit of a dollar can go a long way!

Additionally, a good way to become a better ally is to stay updated on news and information regarding the LGBTQ+ community! A fantastic resource to turn to is The Closet Unlocked, a platform that’s dedicated to highlighting extraordinary members of the LGBTQ+ community while also providing helpful guides and support.

What are some LBGTQ+ organizations or companies that you love to support? Let us know about any resources in the comments down below!