What is Ally Training?
Ally Training is an opportunity to learn about LGBTQIA+ identities, gender, and sexuality, and unlearn prejudice.
You may have seen a sticker or sign that says “I'm a Proud Ally” with a rainbow triangle. This sticker most often indicates the person displaying the sticker has gone through Ally Training and wants to communicate to others that they are open to talking about and being supportive of LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual +) individuals and identities.
Why do people do Ally Training?
LGBTQIA+ folks sometimes question whether they will feel safe, welcomed, or supported in a new environment. Displaying Ally Training stickers and demonstrating you went to training can communicate to others the commitment you’re making to creating LGBTQIA+-inclusive environments.
There is pressure to already know how to be LGBTQIA+ inclusive. And while many of us want to be, we don’t necessarily feel comfortable with the language, our level of understanding, or don’t know where to go to learn more and to explore conversations around gender and sexuality. Ally Trainings are safe places where people can go to learn more about their own gender/sexuality and deepen their understanding of LGBTQIA+ identity and issues.
Who can attend Ally Training? What is the time commitment?
Participants must attend one 2-hour training session. Training is open to all members of the university community. Ally Training is offered once a semester by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility. Those who attend the Ally Training receive a sticker that they can hang to show they have received Ally Training and are a safe resource for LGBTQIA+ people. After the initial training session, participation in other events on campus is voluntary.
What if I just want to show support, but I don't have time to provide ongoing counseling?
Ally Training participants are not expected to be "experts" or counselors. One of the reasons we require attendance at the training session is to provide knowledge about how and where to refer someone to a counselor or other resources on campus.
How can I and/or my organization become a recognized Ally?
If you have questions about Ally Training or how to become a certified Ally, contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility at sdsu.multic@sdstate.edu or call at 605-688-5585.