The question on every Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Two Spirit South Dakotan's mind after seeing the latest hateful headline is, "Where are our allies?"
Queer people nationwide are being beaten down on the regular for simply being alive. They're attacked by the government, discriminatory neighbors, and biased organizations with the shared intention of completely erasing LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit stories.
It's why allies, aka the non-LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit folks who love their queer peers, need to keep showing up.
For anyone not quite sure where to begin, that's totally OK! No singular action is perfect, and no matter what you do, there will always be room to learn and grow. That's why the ACLU has complied five things anyone can do during Pride Month and beyond to support the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit South Dakotans.
Five Ways To Be An Ally:
- Get and remain informed: This doesn't have to be complicated! You can start by supporting local news and subscribing to credible queer reporters like Nico Lang and Erin Reed.
- Show your Pride: Fly a Pride flag or hang an All Are Welcome sign at your home and/or storefront if you own a brick-and-mortar business. This is an easy way to signal to your community and its visitors that your space is open to all.
- Influence local politics: South Dakotans have the power to choose who gets elected and hold them accountable. Show up and vote in every election and use your voice during the legislative session to oppose anti-LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit bills when they're proposed.
- Support local LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit organizations: Donations and volunteer time make movements happen. Give and do what you can to keep them going! Consider volunteering with your local Pride festival!
- Hold those around you accountable: When someone speaks poorly about the LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit community or makes an ill-informed comment about them, say something. Now, this doesn't mean you need to fight someone. Simply take the time to pause and educate them on what they did or said that is wrong. Be patient and come from a place of grace. We're all learning here.
Whether you take your first steps as a volunteer at Pride or dive right in by testifying against anti-trans bills in Pierre, consistency is key when it comes to solidarity. That means showing up regularly! This list is simply a starting point.
P.S. We hope to see you at one of the incredible Pride events taking place across South Dakota this summer! Check out our Pride Statewide listing and find a festival, parade, or drag show near you.
