With June being Pride Month and recognizing the accomplishments and the continued fight for basic human rights within the LGBTQIA+ Community — it’s also important to remind our friends, family and loved ones that may not identify within the community that they can still show support, create awareness and discussion and be a good ally.

Consider reaching out to a local organization to find out how you can volunteer to help at-risk LGBTQ+ youth. If you are in the Metro Detroit Area, consider reaching out to the Ruth Ellis Center and seeing how you can get involved with their programs and services. Ruth Ellis Center is located at 77 Victor Street, Highland Park, MI 48203.

Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center was founded in 1989 with a mission to provide a welcoming space where people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and cultures can find support and unconditional acceptance, and where they can learn, grow, socialize and feel safe. Affirmations offers a wide-range of services, resources, and support groups that cover a variety range of topics. Affirmations is located at 290 W. 9 Mile Rd., Ferndale MI 48220.

Consider using your social media to amplify stories and continue the conversation about key issues that impact the LGBTQ+ Community on a day to day basis which includes missing and murdered transgender identified individuals.

As an Ally, consider signing up for, volunteering and attending events and supporting causes that your LGBTQ+ loved ones care about. Consider reaching out to your local and statewide elected officials and make sure you are registered to vote prior to elections.

Remember to also express your support for diversity, equity and inclusion at your workplace, and join efforts to promote these initiatives.