Transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) are not the only ones working to fight anti-TGNC discrimination and violence and to influence policies at school and elsewhere. That’s your job too. Allies—such as teachers, parents, administrators or fellow young people—play a vital role in this kind of change, and are especially well placed to set a good example.

Here are some strategies for allies to keep in mind:

DO ask young people what name and pronoun they prefer—and respect it.

DON’T ask transgender youth invasive, inappropriate questions about their body or sexuality.

DO create an affirming environment where individual gender expression is supported and there’s room for discussion.

DO create a forum for antiviolence discussions with other youth; hold an assembly program in yours school of community that addresses bullying; or invite guest speakers to share their experiences as transgender youth or adults.

DO support efforts to prioritize TGNC issues in student groups such as Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs). For instance, check out the Gay-Straight Alliance Network’s Beyond the Binary in California.

If you need more information about transgender youth and their legal rights, contact Lambda Legal at 866-542-8336 or visit www.lambdalegal.org/help.