Make it Better Project

A few months ago, we congratulated the Girl Scouts of Colorado on their inclusion of a 7-year-old transgender girl who wanted to join. Unfortunately, that reasonable and celebrated decision has led a 14-year-old girl, backed by parents running an anti-LGBT organization, to call for a boycott of Girl Scout cookies.

You might have seen or heard about the 8-minute, hate-filled video by now, but not known how to respond. Some activists are trying to buy more cookies, or buy cookies directly from the Colorado troop. There's one very simple way, though, that everyone can respond to this moment: by learning and spreading the word about how to be a great trans ally. Check out and share these resources to get started!

1. Beyond the Binary Video Workshop (Make It Better Summer Session 1): Youth leaders Max and Irene introduce some key terms and ideas about gender and how the gender binary system affects everyone. Start at 23:00 for just the gender binary breakdown.

2. Action Tips for Allies of Trans People (Trans@MIT Allies Toolkit): This great resource from Trans@MIT breaks down some of the basics on how to be a good trans ally, and the action steps you can take.

3. Transgender Inclusivity in GSAs (Gay-Straight Alliance Network): Want to know how your GSA club can better include and support transgender and gender-questioning students? This resource will help you tackle transphobia in your school.

While these resources can start you off, we'd love to see other resources that you've found helpful or any blog posts, videos, or other efforts you've created to spread the word! Just tweet them at @makeitbettergsa and use the hashtag #transally.