Even with the growing numbers of people who identify as LGBTQIA+, discrimination still exists. Homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia refer to the fear and hatred people express to gay, bisexual, and transgender people. Members of the LGBTQ community are at risk of experiencing hate crimes. According to an FBI report, sexual orientation was the basis for 16.7% of hate crimes in 2019. Gender identity was the basis for 2.7% of hate crimes. LGBTQ youths consider and attempt suicide at higher rates than heterosexual youths, according to the Trevor Project. Respecting and supporting people who are LGBTQ is important for creating a more inclusive society. Allies are those who support the LGBTQIA+ community (attending Pride events, assisting in advocacy/education, etc.). Some allies are also activists, sometimes called “accomplices.” Accomplices work to change the cultural norms and laws that marginalize and oppress the LGBTQIA+ community. It is vital that allies take their lead from those with lived experiences in order to keep the focus on the community and its causes. GLAAD (previously the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) outlines 10 ways to be a good ally. Examples include being a good listener, being open-minded and willing to talk, and speaking out and/or acting when you see or hear discriminatory behavior. Part of being a good ally is recognizing that everyone is different. Others may not conform to the same behaviors as you, and that’s OK. Do your best to create an inclusive environment by treating everyone with dignity. Something as simple as using someone’s pronouns lets them know you respect their identity. Transgender and nonbinary youths who reported that their pronouns were respected attempted suicide at half the rate of those whose pronouns were not, according to a Trevor Project survey.