ALLYSHIP 101: NO STUPID QUESTIONS Being a Powerful Ally to LGBTQIA2S+ Friends, Family, and Community Members.
Hood River, Ore., May 16, 2025 — Curious about the ever-expanding alphabet that describes the queer community? Feel shy about asking a sensitive question? Concerned about the safety of people in your life with diverse identities? Just want to know more? This is the event for you.
Volunteers with the Hood River Latino Network announce their first Allyship discussion ahead of Pride Month in the Gorge. Allyship 101; No Stupid Questions, will be held Wednesday, May 28th, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in Hood River. This important panel-style discussion will focus on the characteristics of good allyship and answer questions from the audience. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of queer allyship and why it is important.
The moderated discussion will help people better understand and advocate for the queer folks in their families, schools, workplaces, friend groups, churches and neighborhoods. The panel is comprised of queer and non-queer individuals from a variety of backgrounds including professionals, allies, parents & partners. Questions can be asked through hands up or anonymously through an app. Although this is a family-friendly space, details and descriptions of transphobia, homophobia, and suicide will be addressed. Parents/guardians should use discretion when deciding whether to bring children to this event.
One area that garners many questions is always the ABCs of LGBTQIA2S+. Is it alphabet soup or a useful acronym? As the language for identity, gender, and sexuality changes and evolves, it’s easy to be confused. Each letter embraces a distinct identity shared by millions of people around the world. Learn about the differences and gain a deeper understanding of the richness of gender expression. Ask questions of the panelists. Learn to recognize the multiple identities of LGBTQIA2S+ people in your community and transform your understanding of a string of initials into a meaningful symbol of individuality.
“Our desire with this event is to offer a supportive space to build awareness and skills to be an effective ally. Allyship is like a muscle; the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. It takes patience and practice. And the willingness to get it wrong, do better, try again,” Says volunteer organizer Theresa Snyder. “Gender diversity has always been with us and always will be. This is not a debate on the existence or rightness of gender ranges. This is a friendly teaching space to listen and learn, and ask questions if you have them. Our presenters and volunteers are eager to share their expertise and experiences to promote inclusivity, connection, and diversity in the Gorge. History shows that coming together in the spirit of understanding leads to healthier communities and better outcomes for all.”
As the title suggests, there are no stupid questions. All relevant questions will be answered in the spirit of learning through respectful, open-minded dialogue. While the event is free to attend, preregistration is required. The location and address of the event will be provided with registration confirmation. Takeaways, resources, and further information will be available after the presentation. Pride season is in full swing, and now is a great time to learn new skills for allyship and show up for the community at one of the many parades and celebrations. Join us Wednesday, May 28th, 6:30-8:30 p.m. in Hood River!
Click here to register for Allyship 101: No Stupid Questions.
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