14 AMERICAN BLUES THEATER For a lot of people, learning that someone they know and care about is LGBTQ can open a range of emotions, from confused to concerned to awkward to honored. It may be hard to know how to react, leaving you with questions about what to say, how to talk about being LGBTQ, and wanting to know what you can do to be supportive. An “ally” is a term used to describe someone who is supportive of LGBTQ people. It encompasses non-LGBTQ allies as well as those within the LGBTQ community who support each other, such as a lesbian who is an ally to the bisexual community. From the Human Rights Campaign and GLAAD, here are several ways you can be an LGBTQ ally and friend:  Be a listener.  Be honest: It’s important to be honest with yourself — acknowledging your feelings and coming to terms with them. And it means being honest with the person who came out in your life — acknowledging you aren't an expert, asking them what's important to them, seeking resources to better understand the realities of being an LGBTQ individual so that you can be truly informed and supportive.  Be open-minded.  Be willing to talk.  Send gentle signals: Showing and sharing your acceptance and support can be very easy. Many people often don’t realize that LGBTQ people keep watch for signs from their friends, family and acquaintances about whether it is safe to be open with them. It can be as subtle as having an LGBTQ-themed book on your coffee table. HOW TO BE AN ALLY & FRIEND