Today is the day to be a better ally.

The Stonewall Riots of 1969 was a pivotal event for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. It was a catalyst in the fight for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights as the Rainbow Communities and their allies were no longer willing to accept the inequity, harassment, and violence that they had been subjected to. Fast-forward to today, over 50 years later, 2SLGBTQIA+ people continue to fight for equity and inclusion.

While one cannot disregard the advancements made to 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, there is still work to be done as anti-2SLGBTQIA+ attitudes persist. People within this community continue to be “othered” as heteronormative practices and attitudes are ingrained within society and culture. These harmful beliefs follow people into the workplace, creating toxic environments where 2SLGBTQIA+ people are unable to fully exist. There is immense work to be done to create psychologically safe and inclusive workplaces where 2SLGBTQIA+ people are free of stigmatization and discrimination, can be their authentic selves, and can thrive!

But this fight is not just for people within the Rainbow Communities and those who possess power over the oppressive systems and policies. Rather, there is a role for each one of us. Upholding the status quo and failing to proactively educate yourself on the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ people causes harm. 2SLGBTQIA+ people are not responsible for educating you, and you must do the work on how to be a better ally, as this is the foundation of meaningful change and true inclusion.