Unfortunately, the opposite occurred.

In recent years,anti-LGBTQIA+ billshave snowballed.

As such, the climate of the LGBTQIA+ community is one with a renewed sense of fight.

Ahead, learn how your behavior can positively impact others.

That’s not necessarily the case.

Asking someone more marginalized than you to explain their identity is a request foremotional laborfrom them.

to whether or not I’m “even gay.”

Cole says that “We are human, just like any other person.

just do not go out of your way to treat us in a special manner.”

It’s best to follow the same rules when asking LGBTQIA+ people questions as you would anyone else.

If you know it’s inappropriate or personal, save it for Google.

For example, no one would find it acceptable to ask a friend or work colleague about their genitalia.

That means that asking a trans ornonbinaryperson whether they’ve had top or bottom surgery isn’t ok either.

Cole explains that “just because you are curious doesnt give you the right to ask intrusive questions.”

They suggest you “educate yourself through a simple Google search or other online resources, such asglaad.org.”

Educate yourself, be open-minded, and continue to grow as a human being."

So your voice does matter!"

It’s even better if they are an LGBTQIA+-owned business.

“HRC.org has a listof 200 companies that are working to fight against discriminatory bills.

Just Listen

There is so much to be gained by simply hearing what others have to say.

“Listen without judgment, with an open mind, and without assumptions.

There’s also nothing to be gained from talking about how “woke” or knowledgeable you are.

Cole recommends you “yo stop trying to make yourself the center of attention.

This is not about you.

You are an ally.

Your role is to give space to others who are in the community, not yourself!”

Surprisingly, this happens even within LGBTQIA+ communities.

Know that other people’s identities are theirs to discern, and they know best who they are.

Keep those thoughts to yourself, because they succeed only inotheringthose you remark upon.

Human Rights Campaign.200+ Major U.S. Companies Oppose Anti-LGBTQ+ State Legislation.