The Ally Card Program

What an Ally is all about...

An Ally is someone who accepts, appreciates and celebrates lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth. Allies can be of any sexual orientation or gender identity, work together to help put an end to discrimination and fear, and work to make Nova Scotia a safer place. Allies can be anyone who works with youth or who has youth in their lives. They could be parents, teachers, social workers, youth workers, doctors, nurses, guidance counsellors, principals, police officers, etc. The list is endless.

Allies are an important part of the fight to end homophobia and a valuable resource and support to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth. An important part of ending the isolation felt by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth is not only to provide them with opportunities to meet other youth, but with the opportunity to interact with and seek support from adult allies.

What the program is about..

Youth repeatedly report that they are not able to identify the adult support people around them. Fear of homophobia and transphobia often prevents youth from trying to access support. The Ally card program helps identify safe, supportive people. The program does so by providing Allies with a card to display in their space and by providing the Youth Project with an Ally list that enables the Project to identify allies to youth.

How to get involved...

In order to become an Ally, you must first have the desire to support and work with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth. The next step is fill out the online application. This may take a while but being an Ally is worth it! If you do not have access to the Internet we can provide you with a paper copy. This application comes with a contract to fill out stating that you understand what being an Ally means and the importance of being a member of the program. Once approved you are sent an Ally card to display in your work area, information, and a copy of your contract. You will also gain access to our Ally website area where you will be updated on the newest resources, events and training opportunities.

The Ally program is open to all people who work with youth, have youth in their lives, or see youth as part of their overall work. Youth allies are also welcome! The Program is province wide.

Benefits of being an Ally:

Allies gain access to our Ally website area that includes up to date information, resources and training opportunities. Allies are also eligible for discounts on any training sessions hosted by the Youth Project. As an Ally you make yourself visible to LGBT youth who may not otherwise know who is safe. You also make yourself visible to the Youth Project so that we can let youth know you are there. Being an Ally joins you with other Allies in your work setting and around the province. Together you can work for change, share in development opportunities and look to one another for support. Being an Ally sends a strong message that you respect LGBT people.

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Past AGM reports: 2010-2011

It Gets Better

Check out this It Gets Better video from the employees of Pride Health, Capital Health and the IWK - a big thank-you for all the Youth Project shout-outs! These are the people in your community!