What does it mean to be an ally? According to the Webster dictionary, an ally is “a person who is a member of the dominant group and supports and advocates for the oppressed population”. Being an ally is not just accepting a person…it is about celebrating all of the parts of that person that make them unique.
Being an ally is also not just reserved for supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. You can be an ally to any underserved community. For example, I am a proud ally of both the LGBTQIA+ and disability communities.
Here are some concrete ways that you can be an ally:
Challenge yourself to learn new things:
- Read a book or watch a movie where the main character is LGBTQIA+ or the author or creator is LGBTQIA+. We viewed the documentary 1946 a few weeks ago and you can watch it at home using this link.
- Follow a content creator online to learn about their everyday lives
- Subscribe to a newsletter
- Listen to a podcast. Sermon Brainwave features interesting conversations with Dr. Cody Sanders from Luther Seminary.
Listen with grace:
- When having a conversation with someone, be curious about them.
- Listen with intent and authenticity, instead of thinking about how you will respond.
Attend events:
- Find events that celebrate the community. It could be going to Pride, attending a play, or listening to music.
- Here is our chance to plug an amazing community handbell choir called Ring Out MN! All of the musicians are LGBTQIA+ or allies, and a former Advent member, Sammy Strootman, is a founding member. They have a concert on May 16th in Minneapolis. Information can be found here.
Join the RIC committee:
- More hands make light work, and the RIC is seeking more committee members!
~RIC Committee (Anne, Casey, Jenny, and Phil)
