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What It Means To Be An Ally
By Chyanne Bushyhead
Youth Program Coordinator, Steuben County
Pride month is a time of celebrations, reflection, and recognition. Pride month started being globally celebrated in June 1970, a year after the Stonewall riots in New York City. However, Pride month was first federally recognized in 1999 by President Bill Clinton. For allies, it’s a time to ask: How can I better show up?
Allyship is defined as active support for the rights of a minority or marginalized group without being a member of it. Being an ally isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening to LGBTQ+ voices (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other identities not named here), validating their experiences, and acknowledging that each person’s story matters. It means using our platforms, our conversations, and our daily actions to amplify those voices rather than speak over them.
True allyship means taking the initiative to learn about the history, challenges, and ongoing injustices LGBTQ+ people face— without placing the burden of explanation on them. Being an ally also means unlearning biases, being open to growth, and showing up even when it’s uncomfortable.
At the heart of allyship is connection. We all probably know someone who identifies as LGBTQ+ and these relationships make it more personal. They remind us that it isn’t just about policy or politics— it’s about the people: friends, family members, coworkers, and neighbors. Allyship is a verb. It’s what we do in quiet moments and public ones. It’s how we show up when no one’s watching and when everyone is.
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