Queer Allyship: Breaking Down Myths and Building Support
Manage episode 481291571 series 2839001
Kindness truly matters when it comes to supporting our LGBTQ+ loved ones - especially in today's climate of increasing anti-queer legislation. In this eye-opening conversation, Jennifer Boudrye, founder of Queer Allyship, shares her wisdom on how parents can navigate their child's coming out journey with compassion and understanding.
Jennifer's path to advocacy began through personal connections and compassion. After years in education witnessing the struggles of queer youth firsthand, she now dedicates her life to empowering parents who may feel unprepared when their child comes out. Her approach is refreshingly straightforward yet deeply empathetic: "If your religion is leading you to hate anyone, you're doing it wrong."
The most illuminating moments come when Jennifer breaks down complex concepts into relatable examples. She explains gender identity with a brilliant analogy—asking how someone knows they're right-handed. The answer? It simply feels natural. Gender identity works the same way. People know who they are because it feels right, not because of physical characteristics.
Jennifer skillfully dispels dangerous myths about transgender care for youth, clarifying that gender-affirming care for minors primarily involves social affirmation and, in some cases, reversible medical interventions—all under careful medical supervision. The heartbreaking reality that only 40% of LGBTQ+ youth feel safe in their own homes underscores why her work is so essential.
Whether you're a parent whose child has recently come out, an educator seeking to create safer spaces, or simply someone who wants to be a better ally, this conversation offers practical wisdom and compassionate guidance. As Jennifer reminds us, we all have the power to make our communities safer through understanding and acceptance.
Listen, learn, and join us in creating a world where kindness isn't just a concept—it's how we treat each other every day. How will you show up as an ally for the LGBTQ+ people in your life?
If you're looking for facts to counter your friends when they say hurtful things about the LGBTQ community and Trans kids here are a few.
Seven Facts about Transgender people you probably didn't know.
Mayo Clinic facts about being Transgender.
Facts about Transgender People playing school sports.
This podcast is a proud member of the Mayday Media Network. If you have an idea for a podcast and need some production assistance or have a podcast and are looking for a supportive network to join, check out maydaymedianetwork.com.
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It's one thing to highlight the kindness that we see in the world, but it's another to, as I put in many of my social media posts, #bethechange. I am donating all of my royalties from the sale of my book, Change A World; In Order to Change The World to local and national non-profits. Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Chapters
1. Podcast Introduction (00:00:00)
2. Meet Jennifer Beaudry of Queer Allyship (00:01:16)
3. Jennifer's Journey to LGBTQ+ Advocacy (00:05:14)
4. Understanding Gender Identity vs. Sexual Identity (00:13:23)
5. Debunking Myths About Transgender Care (00:18:39)
6. Creating Safe Spaces for LGBTQ+ Youth (00:27:27)
7. Closing Thoughts and Resources (00:38:21)
110 episodes