The LGBT thread (Revisited)

[Dante9]

SpokenTruth said:

Dante9 said:
How would you define an ally? What is expected of an ally?

My philosophy is to judge people as individuals based on their character and their actions, rather than their sexuality, race or any such thing that one is born with.
In other words, I have nothing against you as a such and I think you should be treated the same as everyone else, but would that be enough to be considered an ally, or is something else required?

It depends upon your actions to "being treated the same as everyone else."

Allies advocate, procure and protect the rights of the LGBT community.

Allies dispel myths and denounce hatred and bigotry against the LGBT community.

Allies recognize their 'default' sexuality in the sociopolitical realm is an unwarranted privilege.

Simply treating people with respect should be the default position for everybody to begin with and, obviously, it's a welcomed approach by the LGBT community but being an ally does require a more direct and active participation.  No different than being an ally for anything else, really. 

The problem comes when you witness (in real life or online) mistreatment, abuse, oppression, etc...and don't speak up.  Silence enables others to continue their negative actions. And if you respect someone's right to be treated the same as everyone else, staying silent is antithetical.

Okay, so pretty much what I was thinking. Not having prejudices personally is good, but an ally is someone that takes a proactive approach to the whole thing. Got it.