LGBTQ+: Equal…

• Do treat LGBTQ+ persons equally, as you would any other identity.
• Open events to all, and avoid assuming which individuals would or wouldn’t want to be invited based on stereotypes or assumptions.

…But Different

• Acknowledge that the experience of LGBTQ+ in a homophobic and heterosexist society has a profound effect on how LGBTQ+ individuals view themselves and how they experience the world.
• Don’t assume that being LGBTQ+ is the cause of any problem in the person’s life. However, due to discrimination, they may have to deal with particular stresses.

Every Person is Unique

• Don’t assume that a LGBTQ+ person’s sexuality is the most important aspect of their identity.
• Understand that a person’s LGBTQ+ status is only one part of who they are, and they have multifaceted identities beyond their sexual orientation and gender identity.
• Do not assume that LGBTQ+ individuals have certain politics, views, etc.
• Don’t make assumptions about a person’s gender identity/expression based on their sexual orientation, and vice versa.
• Use gender-neutral language and follow the lead of LGBTQ+ individuals regarding word choices.

Good Conversation

• Don’t limit conversation with LGBTQ+ individuals to LGBTQ+ issues.
• Talk about the same things you would talk about with anyone else – the weather, sports, hobbies, etc.
• Do listen to and respect boundaries of LGBTQ+ people regarding what they do and don’t want to share or talk about.

Avoid Stereotypes

• Don’t comment on someone’s appearance to determine their sexual orientation or gender identity.
• Look beyond stereotypes and see the person.

Partners

• Recognize same-sex relationships as equally legitimate as opposite-sex relationships.
• Use gender neutral and inclusive language, such as partner, significant other, and committed relationship. If inquiring about whether person has a significant other, use that term or other open, inclusive, gender neutral terms.
• Listen to your friends as they introduce their partners and use the same language when introducing them.
• Don’t use boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife or marriage, unless stated as their preference.

Transgender People

• Don’t assume an individual’s sex or gender identity based upon their appearance.
• Use trans-friendly language, such as “he, she or they,” or “people, employees, associates.”
• Ask politely what pronouns and name a person prefers you use when referring to them.
• Use “transgender” as an adjective, as in “transgender person,” rather than as a noun. Avoid “transgendered” and avoid using “transvestite” to describe transgender people. Use “transsexual” only when a person uses that term to describe themselves.

Be An Ally

• Don’t passively tolerate inappropriate behavior or offensive comments about LGBTQ+ individuals or issues. Speak out and object when you witness stereotypes or offensive jokes.
• Speak up against jokes, slurs, teasing, or harassment targeting LGBTQ+ people.

Apologize for Mistakes

• Apologize if you make a mistake and learn from it, aiming to do better in the future.