Let me start by saying, my name is Sally, and I am a cis heterosexual woman, but I am an ally for all the LGBTQIA+ or Queer Community. And I’m using the term ‘queer community’ deliberately as for me, it reflects the full spectrum of different identities, lived experiences and their fluid nature and I want to ensure that I don’t forget or marginalise anyone who identifies as any non-heteronormative identity or sexuality which isn’t covered by the letters in the acronym. I acknowledge though that despite the popular reclaiming of the word, ‘queer’ has a difficult history, and for some might evoke difficult memories.– I mean no disrespect; I’m only seeking inclusion without offence or omission.,

I have been blessed with family and friends, as well as the privilege of nursing and working alongside people from this community. And I believe most firmly that we should be accepting of all diverse groups, and we should be able to all live authentically and honestly as our true selves. Humanity and respect for our fellow humans is vital for us to develop as individuals and as a cohesive society.

If you look at the dictionary definition of allyship, it states it’s ‘active support for the rights of a marginalised or minority group without actually being a member of it.’ I am not a member of the LGBTQIA+ Community – but I am personally and professionally intwined with it.

I have listened to stories of feeling marginalised and discriminated against, I have seen and cleaned the injuries from assaults based on sexuality, I have felt the fear of ‘coming out’ and what that might mean in terms of relationships and judgement.

Not actually being a member of it doesn’t necessarily preclude you from seeing, feeling and understanding some of the discrimination faced by people from the queer community.

Not actually being a member of it doesn’t preclude you from speaking out either, and now more than ever I feel it is time for allies everywhere to stand up, speak out and let everyone know that we stand together with pride.

But allyship is more than just love, it’s active support – how can we, as part of the professional nursing world, show this active support in our daily practice?

It’s easy to say things like ‘standing up against discriminatory practices and words’ but what does this mean and how can we achieve it? Here’s some of my thoughts…

Educate yourself and those around you, learn about the history, and the terminology – I’m not sure I always get the terminology right, but I do ask questions, seek advice and listen to what the LGBTQIA+ community members tell me.

Listening to individuals’ stories and experiences with an open heart and a non-judgemental attitude, think how you may feel yourself if you were faced with some of their lived experiences. Check your privilege, think how your own biases may impact or influence your interactions. Speak up and challenge discrimination when you hear or see it – if you feel safe to do so, if you don’t, then find another ally and share your concerns with them, as together we can be in a stronger position to challenge in this space. Show your support for the queer community by attending Pride events and other community ventures.

And always stay humble, I know I’m still learning, and the LGBTQIA+ space is evolving always so there’s always changes to be aware of. I still make mistakes, but I acknowledge all feedback and use it to reflect on my behaviour to try and be the best ally I can be.

Learn more and watch my video about allyship via our Pride in Nursing webpage