The Straight FOR Equality Pledge

As a straight ally committed to supporting and advocating for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) people, I will:

Come out.

I will acknowledge and work on any uncertainties I may have in “coming out” as a straight ally, and, as I grow in confidence, I’ll increasingly let my family, friends, and colleagues know that I support equality for GLBT people.

Speak up.

Whenever I have an opportunity, I’ll say something supportive of GLBT people, whether I’m responding to a homophobic joke or remark, commenting positively about a current event, or making the case for equality in a discussion.

Join in.

I will review the many recommended actions provided through Straight for Equality that will help me create change in big and small ways and incorporate those with which I am comfortable into my growth as a straight ally to help move equality forward.

=======================================================================================

10 Things To Do As An Ally

There are literally hundreds of ways that you can show support as a straight ally -- from the way that you respond in conversations to what companies you support to which legislators you elect.

Here are 10 simple ways to get started.

One:
Become informed about the realities, challenges and issues affecting the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) people’s lives through websites, books, documentaries, and educational materials.

Two:
Be open about having gay friends, family or acquaintances that you value, respect, and are grateful to have in your life. When you talk about them, don’t omit the fact that they are GLBT.

Three:
Speak up when you hear derogatory slurs or jokes and don’t use them yourself.

Four:
Ask if you are unsure how a GLBT friend, family member or acquaintance would like their significant other to be referred to or introduced, rather than avoiding acknowledgment of the relationship.

Five:
Help your kids learn about and appreciate all different kinds of families. Be mindful of the day-to-day messages that they are receiving about gay and transgender people and issues in school, from friends, and on TV and talk about what they encounter with them.

Six:
Quit or don’t join organizations that overtly discriminate. Let them know why you are leaving or not joining in the first place.

Seven:
Support gay, lesbian, bi, and/or transgender-owned and
-friendly businesses.

Eight:
Encourage and support company policies and programs that promote a positive work environment for gay employees at your workplace. If your company has a GLBT network group, join and encourage them to include straight allies so more people can be openly supportive of their work.

Nine:
Write letters to the editor of your newspaper to comment as a straight ally on why you support respectful and equal treatment for GLBT people.

Ten:
Call, write, e-mail, or visit public policy makers and let them know that as a straight person who votes, you support laws that extend equal rights and protections to all people.