Kaminee Dubey: “Allies Are Some of the Most Effective and Powerful Voices for LGBTQ+ People”

"Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one's definition of your life; define yourself." — Harvey Fierstein, a gay playwright, actor, and Tony winner.

myGwork spoke to Kaminee Dubey, Consultant at Colt about why she is a vocal ally to the LGBTQ+ community and what she hopes to see from other allies.

Hi Kaminee, thank you for chatting with us! To start us off - can you share your definition of an LGBTQ+ ally?

An ally is someone who stands up for, supports and encourages the people around them. It’s a term that gets used a lot in the LGBTQIA+ community. Here, it refers to someone who is heterosexual and/or cisgender but who tries to make the world a better place for people who identify as LGBTQIA+.

"Allies are some of the most effective and powerful voices for LGBTQ+ people."

And what can anyone do - right now - to stand up as an ally?

Focus on supporting them rather than engaging the aggressor. Listen to what marginalized people are saying – face-to-face, on your social media feed or in the articles you read. It's not about you, your feelings or your opinions; it's about hearing theirs. Seek out books, articles, films, etc. Hear how other young people support their friends in ReachOut Forums. Read the first-hand stories and experiences of young gender-diverse people. Support those around you by sharing this list of UK LGBTQIA+ support services.

"I believe that we are stronger together when we embrace diversity and inclusion. Let's work together to create a world where everyone can be their authentic selves, free from fear and prejudice."

Why do you think allies are important?

Allies are some of the most effective and powerful voices for LGBTQ+ people. An ally can be defined as someone who stands up for the equal and fair treatment of people different from themselves. Given that LGBTQ+ people do not make up a majority of the population or most workplaces, allies are critical in creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace. LGBTQ+ people cannot do this alone. By being an ally and showing support for LGBTQ+ people, we help end ignorance leading to issues and actions that adversely impact the daily lives and livelihoods of LGBTQ+ people. Not only do allies help foster safety in the coming-out process, but they also help others understand the importance of equality, fairness, acceptance, and mutual respect.

As someone who believes in equality and inclusion, I am proud to say that I am an LGBTQ+ ally. Being an ally means standing up for love and acceptance, even in the face of discrimination and intolerance. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Kaminee Dubey, Consultant at Colt

What motivated you to be an LGBTQ+ ally? 

Because it's the right thing to do and because I believe that we are stronger together when we embrace diversity and inclusion. Let's work together to create a world where everyone can be their authentic selves, free from fear and prejudice. There are a few reasons I am an LGBTQ+ ally. Here are a few of my motivations:

• Belief in Equality: Many allies believe in the fundamental principle that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should have the same rights, opportunities, and protections as anyone else. They recognize that LGBTQ+ individuals deserve equal treatment and should be able to live their lives authentically without fear of discrimination or harm.
• Personal Connections: Some allies have personal connections to the LGBTQ+ community. They may have friends, family members, or loved ones who are LGBTQ+. This personal connection can foster empathy, understanding, and a desire to support and stand up for the rights and well-being of their loved ones and others within the community.
• Empathy and Compassion: Allies may empathize with the challenges, struggles, and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. They recognize the importance of creating a more inclusive society that values diversity and respects the rights and dignity of all individuals. Their empathy and compassion drive them to take action and be an ally.
• Social Justice and Human Rights: Many allies see LGBTQ+ rights as an essential part of the broader fight for social justice and human rights. They understand that progress towards equality benefits society as a whole and that by standing up for LGBTQ+ rights, they contribute to creating a more just and inclusive world.
• Education and Awareness: Some allies become advocates after educating themselves about LGBTQ+ issues and learning about the challenges faced by the community. By gaining knowledge and understanding, they develop a desire to create positive change and promote inclusivity within their communities.

Ultimately, being an LGBTQ+ ally is about actively supporting and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community. It involves listening, learning, challenging one's biases, and taking action to create a more inclusive and accepting society.