Ongoing Ally Training

In relation to issues of oppression, an ally is defined as "a person who is a member of the 'dominant' or 'majority' group who works to end oppression in his or her personal and professional life through support of, and as an advocate with and for, the oppressed population." The following are four basic levels of ally development and are related specifically to becoming and ally to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons.

• Awareness is the first level. It is important to become more aware of who you are and how you are different from and similar to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Such awareness can be gained through conversations with GLBT individuals, attending awareness-building workshops, reading about GLBT culture, and by self-examination.
• Knowledge/education is the second level. You must begin to acquire knowledge about sexual orientation and what the experience is for GLBT people in this country. This step includes learning about laws, policies and practices and how they affect GLBT persons in addition to educating yourself about GLBT culture and the norms of this community. Materials listed in the resource lists provided are a good starting place.
• Skills make up the third level. This area is the one in which people often fall short because of fear or lack of resources or support. You must develop skills in communicating the knowledge that you have learned. These skills can be acquired through attending workshops, role playing situations with friends, developing support connections, and practicing interventions or awareness training in safe settings. An example may include confronting a student after hearing them tell a homophobic joke.
• Action is the last but most important level. This is the most frightening step. There are many challenges and liabilities for heterosexuals in taking actions to end oppression of GLBT people. However, action is, without a doubt, the only way that we can affect change in the society as a whole; for, if we keep our awareness, knowledge, and skills to ourselves, we deprive the rest of the world of what we have learned, thus keeping them from having the fullest possible life.

Adapted from: Evans, N.J. & Wall, V.A. (1991) Beyond Tolerance: Gays, Lesbians, and Bisexuals on Campus.

Safe Zone Ally Involvement

Now that you've completed your Safe Zone training session, stay active in the Safe Zone community. Read tips for ongoing Safe Zone Ally Involvement.