guide to being a trans ally
Becoming a Trans Ally to Go Beyond the Binary
People who are transgender (trans), including people who are nonbinary, report higher rates of discrimination at work than gay and lesbian individuals. This learning session applies the unique Straight for Equality approach to invite, educate, and engage allies for people who are trans and/or nonbinary. Participants will learn about key terminology related to gender identity and expression, expansive pronouns and how to use them, and skills they need to be allies to people who are trans.
Intermediate to Advanced Let's Talk
Course Length
90 minutes (in-person or hybrid), 60 minutes (online)
Who this course is for
General audience, departments with employee who is transitioning
Download a one page PDF that includes information about this learning session.
Much-needed visibility for transgender and nonbinary people in the US has changed discourse about gender identity and expression. Leveraging PFLAG’s 50 years of experience as the nation’s original ally organization, this session will:
- Understand how gender identity and gender expression have traditionally been understood in the US and the ways that understanding is changing
- Discuss the importance of pronouns, how to use inclusive pronouns properly, and what to do when mistakes are made
- Clarify the role that allies can play – and provide concrete suggestions for things to do – to ensure that people who are trans and nonbinary are supported and included at work; and
- Find out where to get additional resources for continued learning.
An advanced version of this session, that includes opportunities for participants to navigate real-world scenarios as allies, is available.
Participant Materials
10 Things You Can Do to be an Ally to People Who Are Trans*
10 Things You Can Do to be an Ally to People Who Are Trans*
Personal Pronouns and Why The Matter