Refuse to tolerate anti-LGBTQ comments, attitudes, remarks, and/or jokes. Ask others that any anti-LGBTQ humor displayed in common areas be removed completely or placed within private office or living spaces. Report all harassment or discriminatory behavior to the appropriate officials. Display positive materials in support of people who are LGBTQ. If possible, post flyers on actives, support groups, programs, and resources for people who are LGBTQ. Have available referral information for sources which people who are LGBTQ might need. Become familiar with resources, including literature, support groups, organizations, individuals, etc., in your area so you can refer people when appropriate. Do not assume that everyone you meet is heterosexual. Use inclusive, non-gender language that does not assume heterosexuality in others. Use inclusive language in conversation and also in written materials, policies, forms, etc. Educate yourself on issues and concerns for people who are LGBTQ. Take the initiative to obtain accurate information. Attend events, meetings, or programs sponsored by or for people who are LGBTQ. Gain insight by talking to people who are LGBTQ. Learn form their experiences. Maintain a balanced perspective. Do not assume that the sexual orientation of a person who is LGBTQ is the most important important  aspect of that person who is LGBTQ. Remember that everyone is a multi-faceted individual whose sexuality is only on part of his or her total life. Do not assume that being LGBTQ is so hard and presents so many problems that you should feel sorry for people who are LGBTQ. They have the same problems as anyone else. They are just as likely to be well-adjusted, and just as likely to have difficulty coping with stresses in their lives. Because of prejudice and discrimination, however, they have to deal with some unique stressors. Do not assume that being LGBTQ does not matter; for example, thinking that “They’re the same as everyone else and I treat all people the same.” While everyone deserves to be treated equally, that is different from treating everyone the same. The experience of being LGBTQ in a largely unaccepting society has a profound effect on how that person view himself and how he or she experiences the world. Respect confidentiality at all times. It is imperative that you can be trusted. Examine your own biases and fears. You must explore your deepest feelings and beliefs concerning homosexuality. If you are uncomfortable with the issue, this will be communicated to others. Your ability to be open and accepting will be limited by unexamined beliefs and attitudes. Be willing to look at the areas with which you are uncomfortable. Be willing to talk about your doubts, fears, and uncertainties with others, so that you can address them. Know your limits. There may be times when an individual’s needs or concerns are beyond your ability to help them. Know when you have reached the extent of your knowledge or patience and be prepared to seek out others with additional knowledge or expertise for assistance. Do not be surprised when someone comes out to you. Deal with feelings first. You can be helpful just by listening and providing someone a chance to talk about their feeling and their expertise.  Provide positive reinforcement to people who are LGBTQ to help counter the messages of shame and guilt about homosexuality that are so prevalent in society. Assume that in any setting (e.g. workplace, organization meeting, residence hall, etc.) there are people who are LGBTQ who are wondering how safe the environment is for them. Provide safety by making clear your support of people who are LGBTQ. Include LGBTQ issues and topics in trainings seminars, curricula, programming, professional development workshops, etc. when appropriate. If people jump to the conclusion that you are LGBTQ because you talk about LGBTQ topics, because you are friends with LGBTQ people, because you are reading a LGBTQ publication, or because you are being affectionate with someone of the same gender: resist your urge to deny it. Challenge yourself to resist seeing such an assumption as an accusation, or as something that must be denied. Challenge yourself not to immediately retreat into the security of your heterosexual identity and heterosexual advantage. Remember that people who are LGBTQ come from widely diverse backgrounds with a wide range of experiences. Treat everyone as a unique individual.