How to Talk With a Straight Person

Last Updated: January 17, 2023

Do you want to chat to a straight person if you're LGBTQIA+? Or make a friend who is straight? You've come to the right article. Keep reading and you'll be well on your way to making some straight buddies!

1

Be yourself.

Don't worry too much about whether they are bigoted or not. If they turn out to be a bigot, then they weren't worth your friendship anyway. It's okay to mention your same-gender partner, or do stereo typically "gay" or "lesbian" things. Let them appreciate you for who you are.

2

Remember you aren't obligated to educate them.

They can learn about the LGBTQIA+ community on their own. While it may not be a problem to teach them a new word or gently correct an assumption here and there, too much education can be a drain on your energy. Feel free to point them to a website, or suggest they look it up, if you're getting tired.
- If they say hurtful things, to the point that it's really impacting you, cut contact. Your emotional health matters. You aren't obligated to rid them of their toxic ideas.

3

Don't be afraid to talk about love.

You may be able to chat about love as easily as you would with an LGBTQIA+ friend. If you're attracted to the same gender of people, you can even talk about cute people together!

4

Find ways to bond.

Straight people are people just like anyone else. Bonding with them is not very different than bonding with a gay, bisexual, or asexual person.
- Get out of your normal routine and make your life more enjoyable. For example, if you have been eager to play the drums for ten years, go and join a class.
- Take a different route to work. You can take a five-minute longer journey to work and go through the scenic route.
- Or go to a different cafe, try different foods, or join the gym.

5

Treat them with respect.

Even if they're laughably ignorant, they are still worthwhile people. It's important not to condescend to them as they learn, because it may strain your friendship. Keep them in your good graces unless they start doing clearly harmful or mean things.

6

Be patient with them.

Sometimes, straight people are very uneducated about the LGBTQIA+ community. With this in mind, they may harbor ridiculous ideas. Do your best to politely educate them and help them catch up with reality.

Warnings

Don't bother spending time around a toxic person. They aren't worth your effort.

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Sometimes bigots are dangerous or violent. Make sure that you trust the person before revealing too much about your life. It's not fair, but it's necessary to stay safe.

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Don't assume straight (or any other type of sexuality) people are uneducated, or you may come off as rude.

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