"I'm part of the LGBTQUIA+ community"
If you have been sent this link, the sender would like you to know that they are part of the LGBTQUIA+ community.
You should keep this information confidential unless they advise you otherwise - they may or may not be out to others as LGBTQUIA+.
They may identify as lesbian, gay, bi, trans, intersex, on the asexual and/or aromantic spectra, undefined, or in another way which is subject to the same, or similar, forms of oppression. The person who has sent you this resource may choose to share with you specifically how they identify, or they may not. This is a personal decision.
How you can support them
Educate yourself
If you are not already familiar, there is an introductory resource available on key LGBTQUIA+ terms and concepts. There is also a glossary for future reference.
There are many other resources, training opportunities, and events which can support you in educating yourself about LGBTQUIA+ identities, experiences, and related issues. You might want to start by:
- Reading Warwick's factsheets on trans identity and sexual orientation.
- Registering for a trans inclusion training workshop.
- Locating relevant resources in the Queering University directory of resources.
- Attending events of interest in the Queering University calendar of events and training opportunities.
Commit to LGBTQUIA+ allyship
Use your knowledge and self-education efforts to act in allyship with the LGBTQUIA+ community.
If you are not already part of the Rainbow Allies initiative at Warwick, you might like to start there. There is an image available for Rainbow Allies to use in their email signature, to aid with making a visible commitment to LGBTQUIA+ allyship.
Commit to ongoing self-education about LGBTQUIA+ identities, experiences, and related issues. There are key resources available to support you on your journey to allyship with LGBTQUIA+ people:
Support them
Work with the person who sent you this resource to identify any support they may need, from yourself or others. There are many sources of support available, within the University and Students' Union, and externally. This directory of support for LGBTQUIA+ people lists many of them. There is also support and guidance for anyone supporting an LGBTQUIA+ person.
The University's Dignity at Warwick Policy and Trans and Gender Reassignment Policy outline the rights and responsibilities of University community members, unacceptable behaviours, and the process for reporting and responding to inappropriate behaviour. The Report & Support service at Warwick can provide support and routes to report LGBTUIAphobia (including anonymously).
How you can respond to the person who sent you this resource
- Please thank whoever sent you to this resource. Coming out to someone, especially when you aren't sure how they will respond, is a daunting experience. It takes considerable courage and emotional labour.
- Reassure them that you support them, and that you want to be an effective ally. You may want to share any action you have taken to improve your understanding or effective allyship, to demonstrate your commitment.
- Explore what support they may need from you, particularly if you are their line manager, tutor, or lecturer. However, peer support should not be under-estimated.
- Seek support with any questions you may have, ask for information and resources you need, and access any other support you might require. Maintain confidentiality in doing so. It is not appropriate to expect or rely on LGBTQUIA+ people to educate and support you.
This resource was created as part of the Queering University programme.