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LGBTQ Violence is Still on the Rise...Where and How You Can Help

Photo credit: stock-eye - Getty Images
Photo credit: stock-eye - Getty Images

From Redbook

According to the Human Rights Campaign, there have been at least 19 transgender deaths due to violence in America so far in 2019. Since 2017, there have been 8,126 hate-related offenses with 15.9% based on sexual orientation and 1.7% being related to gender identity. This alone should be enough for politicians and city leaders to take action. Our LGBTQ brothers and sisters deserve the same opportunities and equalities we all should be receiving and should not fear for their lives for merely existing. The quickest and easiest way to help is to be informed and empathetic towards others that are different from ourselves. If we start with empathy and an open mind, it can be the first step in creating a safe space.

Trans people of color (specifically trans women) are the most targeted minorities to date. If we continue being woefully blind towards issues such as this, then we leave no opportunities for our future generations to fully understand the beautiful complexities of human nature. Earlier this month, politicians took the stage at CNN's LGBTQ Town Hall in what was the nation's first LGBTQ public forum for Democratic nominees of the 2020 Presidential Election. Just by watching, audiences were presented with the difficulties LGBTQ people face on a daily basis. The debate may have left you wondering how you could get involved. Here are some ways you could be an ally to the community...

Be in the know

Photo credit: vivalapenler - Getty Images
Photo credit: vivalapenler - Getty Images

By just listening to today's current events and learning the history of the community, you'll start to understand the issues that LGBTQ people face. Resources like the Human Rights Campaign, ACLU and Lambda Legal are just a few organizations that you can get involved with to learn more and keep yourself up to date.

Brush up on the old pronoun alphabet

Photo credit: Lamaip - Getty Images
Photo credit: Lamaip - Getty Images

The pronoun topic can be a tricky one because it's all a case by case basis. A simple way to find out how someone identifies is to just ask before making assumptions based on how they look to you. No one will fault you for asking. You can also refer to guides such as these two from Oprah Magazine's website: Using the Correct Pronoun at Work or The Ultimate Glossary of LGBTQ Terms You Need to Know.

Support a youth center

Photo credit: Caiaimage/Trevor Adeiline - Getty Images
Photo credit: Caiaimage/Trevor Adeiline - Getty Images

Almost every state has an LGBTQ youth center and it's important to show support. According to HRC.org, "LGBT youth are twice as likely as their peers to say they have been physically assaulted, kicked or shoved." Youth centers are a safe space for LGBTQ youth to feel supported and secure enough to truly be themselves even when they don't have that in their home life. There are a variety of ways to support, anything from clothes to time spent can be donated.

Show your authentic self

Photo credit: Flashpop - Getty Images
Photo credit: Flashpop - Getty Images

Representation is essential. Shows like Pose are breaking down barriers by showcasing a diverse cast of LGBTQ characters. Not only is this groundbreaking, it also helps inspire people to be themselves. By sharing your own story and truth, you allow others to do the same.

Teach youth compassion through education

Photo credit: Luxy Images - Getty Images
Photo credit: Luxy Images - Getty Images

By normalizing LGBTQ terms and history, it demystifies and creates less opportunity for hate. More and more resources for children and youth are becoming available by the day. Simply by changing our vocabulary, we can create more inclusive spaces and teach our children to do the same. Subjects once thought to be taboo (such as trans rights) can now be communicated to our littles ones in ways they can understand. States like New Jersey, Illinois and California are now including LGBTQ education as part of their public school curriculum. You can find a list of the best LGBTQ books for kids here.

Be sensitive to experienced trauma

Photo credit: Caiaimage/Tom Merton - Getty Images
Photo credit: Caiaimage/Tom Merton - Getty Images

A part of being empathetic is listening to someone's experience with open arms. With an uprising of hate crimes taking place, a big population of LGBTQ people have experienced some sort of trauma related to violence committed against them or someone they know. With open arms and heart, you'll be able to show your brothers and sisters they're safe and wanted.


And perhaps the most important tip to keep in mind: If you see something, say something. It's just as important to educate people around you when teachable moments arise.

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