Often heterosexual people are called on to be advocates for gay, lesbian, and bisexual people on campus. Unfortunately, these heterosexual allies will have few skills or resources available to them and no information to guide their own development or to help others become better advocates for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender student population. Heterosexual staff and faculty can have a significant effect on creating a positive culture on a college or university campus.
Heterosexual allies are people who are supportive of gay, lesbian, and bisexual people.
Currently, little empirical research exists on the identity development of heterosexual allies and developing educational interventions. A number of college and universities have implemented educational interventions with names such as Safe Zone, Safe Space, Safe Harbor, and Safe On Campus. Typical components of these ally programs consist of a resource manual and sticker or sign. Some universities are utilizing the World Wide Web to share their ally programs. It includes information on their training workshop and discusses the benefits and responsibilities of being an Ally.