Ally Guide
Allyship is something you practise.
Learning and belonging
Everyday actions that support Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people. Start with one, and keep learning.
← Back to Resources · Ally GuideChoose a format. You can switch at any time.
Read-aloud needs an English voice installed on this device and a supported browser. You can also use the text below or your device's reading tools.
Small actions, practised often.
Read the guide
Use their words. Respect the name, pronouns and identity someone shares. Do not guess from appearance or ask for private body or medical details.
Protect their privacy. Ask what is okay to share, with whom, and where. A person being out to you does not mean they are out to everyone.
Put care into action. Check what support the person wants. Challenge harmful comments when safe, and make room for community voices and leadership.
Use their words. Respect the name, pronouns and identity someone shares. Do not guess from appearance or ask for private body or medical details.
Protect their privacy. Ask what is okay to share, with whom, and where. A person being out to you does not mean they are out to everyone.
Put care into action. Check what support the person wants. Challenge harmful comments when safe, and make room for community voices and leadership.
Try an everyday moment.
Open a situation for words you could use.
Someone shares their identity with you.
I'm glad you told me. What would feel supportive?
Let them set the pace. They do not owe you an explanation or a label.
You use the wrong pronoun.
Sorry, they. I'll correct that.
Make a brief correction, continue, and practise later. Avoid asking the person to reassure you.
You hear a harmful joke.
Let's not make someone's identity the joke.
If speaking up could increase danger, check in privately and seek appropriate support instead.
You want to introduce someone to others.
Which name and pronouns should I use here?
Ask privately. Respect their answer and avoid sharing their identity without permission.
Two-Spirit has specific Indigenous meaning.
Two-Spirit is a term some Indigenous people use for identities and roles connected to their cultures, communities, gender or sexuality. Meanings vary. Not every LGBTQIA+ Indigenous person uses it, and it is not a label for non-Indigenous people. Follow the person's own language and learn from Indigenous-led sources.
Learn from Indigenous-led voicesMake room, keep learning.
People can face overlapping barriers related to racism, disability, poverty, age and other experiences. Ask what would make participation easier. Listen to feedback, repair mistakes and support work led by the communities involved.
Sources and further learning
The Trevor Project: Being an ally to trans and nonbinary young peopleThe Trevor Project: The Coming Out HandbookNative Governance Center: Two-Spirit leadershipOriginal North Aster examples informed by these resources. The organizations listed have not reviewed or endorsed this guide.
In development
A starting point for Blue Feather
We are developing ally education through Blue Feather: everyday scenarios, guided practice and reflection. This guide is an early resource, not an ally certification.
Explore Blue Feather