1. Remember that most intersex individuals prioritize discussing how to combat human rights abuses [like surgeries on intersex infants], rather than being used as examples to explore concepts in sex and gender theory.

 

2. Be intersex inclusive - use LGBTI or LGBTQIA acronyms in your speech and writing at your university and organization.  Consider how to be inclusive in the scope of your programming, your understanding of the variety of bodies, and the issues that you consider relevant to addressing LGBTQIA oppression.

 

3. Make intersex more visible - “Like” an intersex activist organization like OII via Facebook; share an article, blog post, book, documentary, movie, YouTube clip, or these ally tips; spread information via other formats such as Tumblr and in-person conversations.

 

4. Learn about intersex from intersex people: intersex people are the experts on our experiences and needs; contact an intersex educator for speaking engagements, if unable to meet intersex people, view documentaries, etc., featuring intersex people telling their own stories.

 

5. When speaking to intersex individuals:

• Remember that being intersex may or may not be a part of their identity

• Remember it is not their duty to discuss intersex at any time, or that they will be comfortable discussing all aspects: follow their lead

• Phrase questions to understand intersex broadly, not in ways that are too personal and thus invasive

• Ensure questions do not serve to stigmatize or fetishize intersex individuals

• If intersex individuals are not comfortable discussing certain topics:

  • They may wish to have a broad/general conversation, rather than a personal one:

  • They may wish to have this conversation at another time

  • They may wish to have this conversation, but not publicly

  • They may wish to have a broad/general conversation, rather than a personal one

 

6. Do not make the assumption that intersex is a medical condition - some intersex folks do not use the words “condition” or “syndrome” when discussing their form of intersex. You can use language like “variations of intersex” or “intersex variations” instead of “intersex conditions.”