Imagine a world where you constantly fear the threat of being physically assaulted for who you are, you don’t feel comfortable using public restrooms because you are afraid of the reactions you’ll receive and you simply cannot be comfortable in the body you were born in. These struggles are what many transgender individuals have to face on a daily basis in our society.

The LGBT rights movement has had a great focus on equality for same-sex couples and the benefits that accompany having same-sex partnerships legally recognized, but it seems that transgender individuals all-too-often have their rights put on the backburner. In reality, they need the most support out of all individuals in the LGBT community. With homelessness, healthcare and joblessness being major issues in the transgender community, it is important that lesbian, gay, bisexual and straight allies not identifying as transgender show support for a community that deserves the basic rights that we all receive.

You may be asking yourself what you can do to help the trans-community, when really it’s as simple as being an ally and friend. Any gay, lesbian or bisexual person knows the rough journey that comes with being openly homosexual. One thing you can do when a friend is struggling with coming out as transgender is be there for them, help them realize that the feelings they have are nothing to be ashamed of. Encourage them to embrace their identity, and always refer to them by the gender pronoun they prefer to be called by. Let them know that they are not alone and they are beautiful being whoever it is they want to be.

Keep in mind to be sensitive in relation to their transitioning process. It takes a lot of courage to take the steps in becoming an entirely new person physically. Although you may not understand the process, it’s important to keep an open mind and simply be an ally to those who have chosen to undergo this long, emotional and expensive process.

There is also certain language that you, as a supporter, can discourage people from using. In order to show hate and dehumanize transgender individuals, some people will refer to trans-people as “it” or “that.” Stand up against this hate by explaining that this type of language is not acceptable. Many people outside of the community may not know that “tranny” is also an offensive and outdated term that is often used negatively against the transgender community.

When it comes down to it, be a good person. Realize that we are all humans, and we all face struggles in this life. Be aware of what issues others are constantly faced with because you never know when someone struggling will need the positive reinforcement you can give as an ally.