An ally is someone who is not a member of an underrepresented group but who takes action to support that group to help make their workplace more diverse and inclusive for all.
For workplaces to become truly inclusive it is up to people who hold positions of privilege to be active allies and to take responsibility for making changes that will help others be successful.
Allies at all levels can take action with simple, everyday efforts that make a real difference and in this series, we highlight some things that you can do to be an ally and to support your colleagues from underrepresented groups.
#45: How to be a good trans ally
Seven in ten trans workers say their experience of workplace harassment or discrimination has a negative effect on their mental health. Every non-trans person can be a trans ally and work to ensure trans people are treated with dignity and respect.
There are some simple things you can do to equip yourself to be a trans ally and to help you feel more confident to speak up when you encounter transphobia.Â
- Start by Educating Yourself. There are lots of online resources to help you learn more.
- Speak up for trans people, for trans equality and against transphobia. Don’t leave challenging transphobia to trans people.
- Speak up if you see or hear any transphobic bullying or mis-gendering.
- Make an effort to include trans colleagues in both work and social conversations.
- Speak to and listen to trans people and colleagues.
- Don’t make assumptions.
- Understand and respect boundaries and respect a person’s privacy.
- If someone has changed their name, use their new name.
- Don’t be afraid to ask a colleague what their pronouns are.
If you make a mistake – apologise, correct and move on.
Read the full “How to be an Ally” series here.
