Allyship is never easy, and it isn’t meant to be

In honour of IDAHOBIT, Out In Schools Program Manager Danny Lybbert (he/they) reflects on what it means to be a true ally.

International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17, 2025 is a day where we are called to stand up against anti-2SLGBTQIA+ violence and bigotry.

In past years, we have celebrated great achievements in the fight for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights around the world on IDAHOBIT. Unfortunately, we are now seeing these landmark achievements being rolled back in Canada and internationally. For so many of us, it feels like the safety of our community is hanging in the balance. We need our allies, now more than ever. 

At a recent presentation, a teacher and I were discussing how the current political climate has been impacting local schools, youth, and educators. She told me how she was noticing some of her colleagues–who used to be proud allies and supporters of queer inclusion–weren’t showing up for their queer and trans students anymore. And she isn’t the only one–we have heard from many educators across BC that they are battling a wave of anti-queer and anti-trans sentiment from parents, administrators, and fellow educators. Queer educators are feeling frustrated and unheard in their efforts to advocate for their queer students, and some are scared to bring up queer topics in classrooms for fear of being accused of “indoctrination.”

It’s easy to celebrate IDAHOBIT when things are going well.

We know from our work that it is hard to be an ally right now, especially in the education system. Educators in BC, already overworked and underpaid, are now under constant scrutiny from parents when it comes to queer and trans topics. As 2SLGBTQIA+ identities are being politicized in the media and used as divisive talking points, real harm is coming to regular people and youth in our communities. Youth and educators alike deserve to feel safe and supported in schools. They deserve to feel supported by their communities for all parts of their identities.

 Allyship is never easy, and it isn’t meant to be. 

“Being an ally” is more than a statement of your beliefs. It requires going out of your way to advocate for and support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. It requires action, especially when it feels easier to look away.

Today, we want to celebrate the educators, administrators, parents, and youth who continue to fight for inclusion and safety in their communities. We meet so many of you in our work across BC, and we see how you are actively fighting against a tide of ignorance and fear.

Allyship and acceptance is contagious.

At Out In Schools, we believe that when we see examples of others living as their fullest selves, it inspires others to do the same, regardless of your gender identity or sexuality. And when we see other people choose empathy and understanding over fear and ignorance, it inspires acceptance in ourselves, too.

We are proud to support our allies in schools across BC through our work.