Further advocating for LGBT allies

Now that you're out as a straight ally, what else can you do? Here are some ideas. Remember, every effort, no matter how small, helps make the world a safer place for your LGBT friends and family members.
* Share your stories: Someone You Know Is Gay is a great place to start, but don't stop there. Let your friends, coworkers, neighbors, poker buddies, yoga partners, classmates, and everyone else you interact with know you care about someone who is gay.
* Write letters: When you see an article in a newspaper or magazine about LGBT issues, write a letter to the editor. If it's a positive article, thank them. If it's negative, tell them why. Tell your stories about the LGBT people in your life.
* Contact your representatives: Politicians are elected to serve you, so make sure yours know where you stand on issues like marriage equality and discrimination protection for LGBT people. Call, email, fax, or snail mail them early and often. You can find your reps at www.vote-smart.org.
* Vote: Find out where candidates stand on LGBT issues and support those who support the people you care about.
* Speak up: When you hear someone making anti-gay or false blanket statements about LGBT people, call them on it.
* Get involved: There's plenty of room for allies right now in Michigan. The Coalition for a Fair Michigan, a coalition of LGBT and allied groups working against the anti-gay marriage amendment, needs you. Volunteer to help or make a contribution. Visit www.coalitionforafairmichigan.org or call them at 248-477-7504.
* Get smart: Education is key to effective debate. Know what you're talking about. You should know, for example, that it is perfectly legal to be fired in Michigan for being LGBT. A good place to start your education is with TurnOut at www.turnout.org. For more resources, go to www.pridesource.com for a directory of local organizations and groups.