10 ways to support the local LGBTQ+ community

Educate yourself about LGBTQ+ issues to show that you care. Our go-to pick is Pelangi Pride Centre, Singapore's first and only LGBTQ library and resource centre. Otherwise, local queer-friendly bookstores such as BooksActually also carry LGBTQ fiction and non-fiction titles that will expand your knowledge. If you're a visual person, don't miss out on the great movies and documentaries out there that will give you a glimpse into the lived experiences of the LGBTQ+ community – Pink Screen at The Projector is a great place to start. And frankly, there are so many online sources to learn from nowadays that you really have no excuse. Check out Instagram accounts like @interunilgbt and @minority voices. 

It's time to do away with the assumption that being straight and cisgender is the norm. These expectations can show up in the most innocent of questions, for example, when you ask a girl, "Do you have a boyfriend?". Everyone has different thresholds, but such statements could be alienating and even offensive for some in the LGBTQ+ community. Practice using inclusive language (for example, using "partner" instead of "boyfriend" or "girlfriend") – it'll go a long way to creating a safe and comfortable environment for all. 

If someone has asked you to use a certain pronoun (he/she/they, etc.), always respect their request. It's normal to slip up at first, simply apologise and correct yourself immediately and try to get it right the next time. And it's not the norm in Singapore so you might feel awkward at first, but you can try offering your own pronouns first too. After all, we're trying to stop treating cisgender as the norm right?

It helps to understand that gender and sexuality is a journey. Sometimes your friend or family member is just not ready to label themselves. Even when they figure out their identity, it's perfectly normal for that to change and evolve over time. Give them space to figure it out, provide an understanding listening ear when needed, and try to check in and adjust to a loved one's preferred identity or label when needed. 

Always have the LGBTQ community's back. Hear someone making a disparaging remark, spreading damaging stereotypes or using outright slurs? Say something about it. It's easier said than done, but showing the offending party that you're not okay with such language or behaviour is important to promoting LGBTQ+ acceptance in Singapore. 

Sometimes, nothing is more helpful than financial support for the organisations that are fighting hard every day for LGBTQ+ equality in Singapore. Many of these are volunteer-run and could use some financial firepower to further their mission. There's the non-profit organisation Oogachaga which provides essential counselling services for the local LGBTQ+ community in Singapore, as well as volunteer-run Sayoni, which fights for human rights protections for queer women. 

And of course, shopping doesn't always have to be a morally questionable affair. Put your dollar towards supporting LGBTQ+ owned and allied brands – we've got the drop on five labels that are changing the game. 

Check out more LGBTQ+ friendly places in Singapore to support.

If you aren't able to donate or simply want to get more involved, consider volunteering at any of the mentioned organisations. Annual events like Pink Dot are also entirely volunteer-run, and always need passionate and driven individuals to help with planning, logistics and event-day facilitation. If you have a certain set of skills – writing, social media management, accounting – feel free to reach out and offer your time or services too. 

Attending community events is also part of it. Celebrate Pride Month with the LGBTQ+ community (hello Pink Fest!), cheer them on at drag parties and performances – just show up to let them know you care. 

On the flip side, Singapore is sadly low on LGBTQ+ exclusive venues, which can be a real bummer for a community that's sorely in need of safe spaces that celebrates them in all their wonderful diversity. Entrepreneurs and businesses owners – it helps to show that you're welcoming of all genders and sexual orientations. And individuals, celebrate with the community at LGBTQ+ events if you will, but stay respectful and out of the limelight – it's their time to shine.

There are many ways to speak out, and it doesn't only need to happen when others are being intolerant towards the LGBTQ+ community. Talk about queer issues with friends and family members, understand their point of view, and share helpful resources to bring awareness to and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore. 

When words fail you, put your favourite LGBTQ+ artists, creators, singer-songwriters, illustrators – the list goes on! – front and centre. Share their work on social media or other platforms (with permission and credit, of course) so other Singaporeans can open their eyes to the incredible talent in the community that they may not have been aware of. Amplifying LGBTQ+ works may even score customers or job opportunities for the artists, or at the very least, help them feel seen and appreciated. 

Check out some local LGBTQ+ books to read and LGBTQ+ artists to follow on Instagram.