Safe Spaces [Ally Program]
The Ally Card program is a program aimed at supporting gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, two-spirited and questioning (GLBTTQ) youth and strengthening their ability to live, learn and love safely in our communities in southeastern New Brunswick.
Potential Allies
How does the Ally Card program work?
All allies are required to submit program application and agreement forms. Because of the potentially sensitive issues involved with being an Ally, a criminal background check is required of all applicants. Once a completed application is submitted, the Ally Card program selection committee, made up of GLBTTQ and GLBTTQ-friendly youth-serving community members, review the application. Once approved, the Ally is asked to participate in a four-hour Ally training workshop. Upon completion, the Ally is sent an Ally kit that contains helpful handouts and resources that will assist Allies in their work with GLBTTQ youth.
What is an Ally?
- An ally is someone who accepts, appreciates and celebrates the diversity of people and works along side others to help end discrimination and fear
- Allies work to make the world a safer space for everyone
- Ally cards assist GLBTTQ youth in identifying safe people to approach to access services or support without censoring
Why do gay, lesbian and bisexual youth need Allies?
GLBTTQ youth are:
- At an increased HIV risk due to isolation; lack of services; homophobia; lack of role models; alienation from organized religions, and hostile environments
- At a higher risk for homelessness (40% of homeless youth in Toronto identify as GLB)
- Six times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual youth
What do Allies do?
- We live in a straight world... Allies show GLBTTQ youth they’re not alone
- Respect confidentiality of GLBTTQ youth
- Continually evaluate personal beliefs about sexual orientation
- Create a welcoming, hate-free environment and challenge the language & behavior of those less accepting
- Challenge homophobia and heterosexism
- Use questions from co-workers as an opportunity to educate others
- Be familiar with GLBTTQ issues and resources
Click here to become and Ally!
Current Allies
Handouts & Fact Sheets
- Developing a positing identity
- How do you FEEL about sexual orientation?
- How much do you KNOW about sexual orientation?
Adapted from Northern Illinois University's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Resource Center
Youth
Looking for Allies in your area?
Check back soon for a list of Allies in your community!
Want to get involved with the Ally Card program?
Call (506) 854-3049 or e-mail us here.
The Ally Card program was made possible in part by funding from:
