Coronado’s LGBTQ+ community has been flooded with support of ally teachers, students, and parents alike. These allies show their advocation for others–even those they may not share experiences with. Regardless, these allies still stick by their friends and community members.

Ally Week will be from September 25th to the 29th, where LGBTQ+ teachers and students can openly discuss what the said community needs from their allies in school. The community, despite it’s growing appreciation from the outside, is still met with anti-LGBT remarks, harassment, and bullying across America. The Ally Week will consist of student-educator driven conversations about the ways the allies can help prevent this from continuing.

Allies are extremely important to the LGBTQ+ community because they are a voice that can be heard despite common prejudice, a shoulder to lean on, and can challenge homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia. In coming to Coronado’s GSTA meetings, which are after school after every Tuesday, and during first lunch on the first Friday of every month, anyone can show their support and concern for the community.

People who are interested in showing their allyship can help the LGBT community by speaking out against hateful remarks against the community, respectfully asking someone’s pronouns before assuming them, and accompanying your non gender or sexual orientation conforming friends in places they may feel unsafe, like locker rooms or bathrooms. These are just a few ways one can show their appreciation and care for their LGBTQ+ friends.

To sign up for the GLSEN’s (the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network) Ally Week, visit https://donate.glsen.org/page/signup/allyweekreg to learn more about how you can help!

You can also go to GLSEN Up, http://action.glsen.org/page/s/GLSEN-Up-registration , which is another sign-up which allows you to take action on a higher level, with such things as calls to advocacy, and participation in the Day of Silence.

Way to go, cougars, for showing your spirit for everyone, no matter who they are!