What Does It Mean to Be a Straight Ally? (And 9 Ways You Can Show Up for the LGBTQ+ Community)

Maybe you’re the parent of a gay child, a friend to a trans colleague, or just someone who believes that everyone deserves to live authentically and free from discrimination. If that’s you, welcome, you’re in the right place.

Being a straight ally is more than just supporting LGBTQ+ rights from the sidelines. It’s about actively using your voice, presence, and privilege to create a safer, more inclusive world. Whether you’re in Tucson, Arizona or anywhere else in the world, your allyship matters.

💡 What Is a Straight Ally?

A straight ally is a heterosexual and/or cisgender person who supports and advocates for the LGBTQ+ community. But allyship isn’t about being a “hero” or getting a pat on the back. It’s about standing in solidarity, taking meaningful action, and showing up consistently, especially when it’s uncomfortable.

True allyship means educating yourself on the issues, listening deeply to LGBTQ voices, and being willing to speak out against hate or injustice when it arises. It’s about using your platform, no matter how big or small, to affirm that love is love and that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity.

In cities like Tucson, allyship has long played a vital role in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion. In fact, back in 1977, Tucson was one of the first cities in the U.S. to pass a local ordinance banning discrimination based on sexual orientation—a move that required the backing of straight city leaders and voters alike.

🏳️‍🌈 A Brief History of Straight Allyship

While the term “ally” is relatively new, the actions of allies go back decades. In 1973, Jeanne Manford, a mother from New York, founded PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) to support her gay son and others like him. Her bravery helped ignite a movement where straight family members could become vocal advocates.

By the late 1980s, students and teachers were forming the first Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) in schools. These alliances brought LGBTQ and straight students together to fight bullying and promote inclusion, a model that’s now found in schools across the country.

The 1990s and 2000s saw the rise of the Straight Ally flag, featuring black and white stripes with a rainbow-colored “A” in the middle. It’s not about pride, it’s about solidarity. A symbol that says: I’m here. I support you. You are not alone.

And Arizona has had its share of powerful moments, too. In 2014, when a bill threatened to legalize discrimination against LGBTQ+ people, more than 80 businesses and political figures, including many straight allies, rallied to demand a veto. Their efforts paid off.

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✅ 9 Things You Can Do to Be a Better Straight Ally

1. Educate Yourself on LGBTQ+ History and Issues

Knowledge is power. Understanding LGBTQ+ history, from the Stonewall riots to the modern fight for trans rights, gives context to today’s struggles. Dive into books, documentaries, or workshops. In Tucson, check out organizations like SAAF (Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation) for local learning opportunities.

2. Use Inclusive and Respectful Language

Words matter. Always use the names and pronouns someone shares with you, and avoid outdated or offensive terms like “lifestyle” or “preference.” Inclusive terms like “partner” or “spouse” help create a space where everyone feels seen and respected.

3. Listen to LGBTQ+ Voices

Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can say is nothing at all, just listen. LGBTQ+ people often navigate a world that misunderstands or silences them. Ask how you can support them better. Read LGBTQ+ authors, watch queer films, and follow diverse voices on social media.

4. Speak Up When You Witness Discrimination

Silence is complicity. Whether it’s a homophobic joke at a dinner party or a transphobic comment at work, it’s your responsibility to challenge it. You don’t need to be aggressive, just be firm, kind, and clear.

5. Show Up—Physically and Publicly

Your presence at Pride events, rallies, or educational forums sends a loud and clear message of support. Bring your kids. Wear a small Pride pin. Volunteer your time. Let others know you’re a safe person to talk to, someone who shows up even when it’s not convenient.

6. Vote for LGBTQ+ Equality

Policies affect lives. Support candidates and laws that promote fairness and equality. In Arizona, political allies have helped advance LGBTQ+ protections, and your vote continues that legacy.

7. Support LGBTQ-Owned Businesses and Creators

Money talks. Support LGBTQ+ artists, businesses, and creators in your community. Whether it’s grabbing coffee at a queer-owned café or shopping from LGBTQ+ artisans, your dollars can help build an inclusive economy.

8. Be Visible in Your Allyship

Wearing a Pride pin or Safe Space sticker at work might seem small, but these symbols help LGBTQ+ folks know they’re not alone. Visibility also sparks conversations and normalizes inclusion.

9. Stay Humble and Keep Growing

Allyship is a journey, not a badge. You will make mistakes and that’s okay. What matters is your willingness to apologize, learn, and keep showing up with an open heart.

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🌍 The Real Impact of Allies

From Barack Obama declaring his support for marriage equality, to Cher standing by her trans son, straight allies have helped shift public opinion and policy. Here in Tucson, local business owners, city leaders, and everyday citizens have used their voices to stand with the LGBTQ+ community, and they continue to make a difference.

Even small acts of support, like checking in on a queer friend or attending a local Pride festival, can be life-affirming. When straight allies are visible, vocal, and sincere, they help create a world where LGBTQ+ people can live openly and joyfully.

❤️ Final Thoughts: You’re Needed, Now More Than Ever

Being a straight ally isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about standing beside those who face discrimination and saying, “I’ve got your back.”

At GayTucson, we believe in building bridges, amplifying local voices, and creating safe spaces where everyone belongs. So whether you’re just starting your ally journey or you’ve been walking this path for years, thank you.

Your allyship matters. And together, we can make Tucson, and the world, a more loving, inclusive place.