THE ABSOLUTE BRIGHTNESS OF LEONARD PELKEY BACKSTAGE GUIDE 15  Be inclusive.  Don't assume anything about anyone’s sexual orientation: Someone close to you could be looking for support in their coming-out process. Not making assumptions will give them the space they need.  Let your support inform your decisions: It’s about working to develop a true understanding of what it means to be LGBTQ in America and trying to do your part to help break down the walls of prejudice and discrimination that still exist — for example, by supporting businesses with appropriate anti-discrimination policies, saying you don’t appreciate “humor” that demeans LGBTQ people when it happens, or learning about where political candidates stand on issues that have an impact on the LGBTQ community.  Confront your own prejudices and bias, even if it is uncomfortable to do so.  Be reassuring: Explain to a someone who came out to you that their sexual orientation or gender identity has not changed how you feel about them, but it might take a little while for you to digest what they have told you. You still care for and respect them as much as you ever have or more. And that you want to do right by them and that you welcome them telling you if anything you say or do is upsetting.  Have courage: Just as it takes courage for LGBTQ people to be open and honest about who they are, it also takes courage to support your LGBTQ friends or loved ones. We live in a society where prejudice still exists and where discrimination is still far too common. Recognizing these facts and giving your support to that person will take your relationship to a higher level and is a small step toward a better and more accepting world.  Believe that all people, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation, should be treated with dignity and respect. (edited from HRC.org and GLAAD.org)