This LGBT+ History Month, here are some actions you can take to help support our LGBTQ+ community and beyond – better allyship can start here:
Learn about the lives, history and activism of the LGBTQ+ community
- Discover a list of suggested resources around Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging on the Library website – you can also make suggestions to help shape the collection.
- The Southampton City Council online reading lists celebrate the diversity, experience and culture of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community including personal stories.
- You might reach out to a friend or the LGBTQ+ society to find out more about the LGBTQ+ community and activism.
Using pronouns
- When you use someone’s chosen pronouns or the appropriate pronouns for their gender identity, you are acknowledging their gender identity, and behaving in a respectful and supportive way.
- If unsure what pronouns someone uses or how to use them, asking “Can I ask what pronoun you use?” would be respectful and inclusive.
- Find a guide to using pronouns on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion SharePoint site including why they matter and how you can use them, including on social media profiles.
Learn the language
- Language is powerful. Read the Guide to Using LGBTQ+ Inclusive Language on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion SharePoint.
Be open to mistakes but apologise without qualifications
- If you ever feel concerned about making mistakes and saying the wrong thing, or behaving in an unhelpful and hurtful way unintentionally, remember it is better to be an imperfect ally than not be an ally at all.
- The best allies are willing to make mistakes and keep learning. But if you do make a mistake, we should apologise without any “ifs” or “buts”, avoiding phrases like “But that’s not what I intended”. Acknowledge the mistake sincerely and be willing to listen, learn and update ally practices as you go.
Speak up
- Do not keep quiet if you witness or are a victim of bullying, hate incidents, or harassment. Use the University’s Report and Support tool to let us know and access support if you – or someone else – needs it.
- Register for one of our upcoming Active Bystander online training sessions this month – designed to help you challenge poor behaviours and bring about cultural change:
Active Bystander Training, Wednesday 15 February, at 15:00
Active Bystander Training, Wednesday 22 February, at 15:00
Catch up on recent news you might have missed: LGBT+ History Month 2023: Get involved (southampton.ac.uk)