guide to being a straight ally
What Would You Do? Being an Active Ally in Tough Situations
Knowing when, where, and how to react to anti-LGBTQ sentiments can be stressful, especially in the workplace. In this learning session, participants will build their ally skills by considering new ways to expand and share their knowledge about LGBTQ+ equality. We will lead advanced, self-identified allies through a skill-building experience to fine-tune their communications and conflict resolution skills to take on the tough and tricky world of difficult situations. This customized, scenario-based, session encourages participants to apply what they’ve learned to real-world situations and share their unique strategies to ensure that their LGBTQ+ colleagues feel a sense of belonging at work.
Advanced Let's Talk
Course Length
90 minutes (in-person or hybrid), 60 minutes (online)
Who this course is for
Advanced audience with knowledge of why diversity, equity and inclusion are important in the workplace and an understanding of core LGBTQ+ terminology
Download a one page PDF that includes information about this learning session.
Research consistently shows that while most people identify as allies to the LGBTQ+ community, many have never taken action to demonstrate their support for their colleagues or friends. Leveraging PFLAG’s 50 years of experience as the nation’s original ally organization, this session will:
Research consistently shows that while most Americans identify as allies to the LGBTQ+ community, many have never taken action to demonstrate their support for their colleagues or friends. Leveraging PFLAG’s more than 50 years of experience, this session will:
- Clarify the ways in which the advanced allies’ journey looks different than new and potential allies who are just getting started;
- Discuss skills and resources that advanced allies need to establish themselves as champions of belonging, learn more, educate others, and create conversations about LGBTQ+ equality;
- Develop strategies for resolving conflict and moving away from those dead-end debates; and
- Work out, through a group discussion, how to navigate some common (but tough) scenarios that allies often face in the workplace – and learn how others do it, too.
For in-person and hybrid sessions, this workshop is only available in a 90-minute format.
Scenarios considered during this learning session will be developed, customized, and selected in consultation with event planners.
Participant Materials
Guide to Being An Ally to Trans and Nonbinary People
Guide to Being An Ally to Trans and Nonbinary People
Sample Scenario