Ally Week will advocate acceptance of LGBTQ+ community

September 12, 2016

Carla Browning

The Gender and Sexualities Alliance, in cooperation with the Nanook Diversity and Action Center, will hold multiple events at UAF during Ally Week, Sept. 26-30.

The nationwide Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network started Ally Week in 2005 to encourage everyone to stand up for LGBTQ+ individuals and to combat violence and discrimination against them.

At UAF, Ally Week will start with an Ally Workshop and conclude with Pride Night at The Pub.

The week offers opportunities for LGBTQ+ allies to think about identity and privilege, especially how they can advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Ally Week seeks to ensure safe, effective spaces for LGBTQ+ community through educating people about respect, acceptance and support.

There are many ways that you can be an ally.  Here are some ideas from GLSEN:

• Intervene when you hear anti-LGBTQ+ language and remarks.


• Use "I" statements and speak from your own experiences, instead of presuming those of LGBTQ+ individuals.


• Read up on LGBTQ+ issues.


• Display bulletin boards about how to be an ally.


• Do an inventory of LGBTQ+ resources at UAF.