Pride month is this June, and one topic to familiarise yourself with is how you can
support the everyday experiences of the LGBTQ+ youth. Many relatives are
accepting, but some aren’t so much. While many individuals are lucky to have
supportive family members, others can face disapproval or rejection. There are many
ways you can show your support and be a shoulder to learn on.
1. Take Time To Listen
If a young adult isn’t understood by their family, it can be frustrating and upsetting.
Ranting about how they feel can be an outlet to release some of their emotions.
Remember to listen carefully and offer emotional support rather than giving practical
solutions. In order for them to feel okay with opening up if they need to, create a safe
space without any judgment. For example, you might say something like “That
sounds difficult. I’m here if you want to talk more about it.” Validate their feelings
wherever you can, as this can allow them to feel understood and accepted.
2. Let Them Know You Care
People in the LGBTQ+ community often create chosen families when their biological
family isn’t supportive. This involves building strong relationships with people they
trust, like friends, mentors and people in the community. If you’re in someone’s close
circle, offer them reassurance and let them know you care about them! Remember,
this should be consistent. For example, use their correct pronouns daily and actively
be there for them. At the same time, be supportive of whatever family means to
3. Be Supportive of Their Future Plans
As well as views about their own family, they might also have strong views about
having a family of their own in the future. For people in the LGBTQ+ community,
there are many ways to build a loving family. Whether it’s adoption, surrogacy, co-
parenting, or a fertility treatment like IVF, there are several paths to parenthood. It’s
important to support them in exploring the pathways they prefer instead of telling
them what’s best for them; be there to listen and understand.
4. Be Respectful of Family Ties
Saying something like “She’s your mother, she won’t be around forever, so you
should talk to her again” can be frustrating for people to hear. It’s important to
support their choices and boundaries without judgment. Having toxic relationships in
their life can be draining and unhealthy, and sometimes cutting ties is the best
personal choice for them.
5. Remember That Family Experiences Differ
There are many different reasons why someone in the LGBTQ+ community could
have a different family experience, such as religious, cultural and generational
factors. These experiences can be complex, with some young adults navigating
acceptance, and others deciding to be estranged completely. Understand that
everyone’s experience is different and be there to offer your emotional support.
6. Educate Yourself This Pride Month
Learn about the problems LGBTQ+ people face, especially when it comes to family,
healthcare, and mental health. By doing this, you can learn new ways to give your
support to people in the LGBTQ+ community. At Space Youth Project, we have a
number of resources and links, and you can use some of these to learn more about
the LGBTQ+ community and their struggles.
Finishing Up
Family situations can be complex, but by being there, you can offer a shoulder to
lean on. Hopefully this article has pointed you in the right direction on how you can
Rosie Buckley, Guest Blogger
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