Close friendships can spring up from all kinds of shared experiences. I had a 10-year best friendship with someone that began because our seventh grade teacher arranged her classroom alphabetically, so the two of us ended up sharing a desk. Having a last name that is late in the alphabet might not seem like the foundation of a decade of friendship, but it was enough to get us started.

Once we get older, friendships get both harder to come by and tougher to maintain. We no longer all share the typical school day schedule, and our lives often pull us in wildly different directions. Now you’ve got freelancers trying to schedule coffee dates with nine-to-fivers, and commuters trying to figure out how to remain close with their BFFs who have stayed downtown.

One of the hardest bridges to gap, however, can be the one between new parents and their childless friends. The former group is trying to figure out breastfeeding and co-sleeping and unwanted advice from strangers, while the latter group is doing… none of those things. And while there are definitely things that new parents need their kid-free friends to know, it’s also important to keep in mind what kid-free people need their new parent friends to know too.

More: 11 Signs Your Friend is Actually a Toxic Mess

As a kid-free person who counts parents among her friends, I’m here to share some of that wisdom.

1. We might still know a lot about babies

While I would never compare it with full-time parenting, I was 9 years old when my sister was born and I grew up taking care of her. Lots of kid-free people also have a lifetime of experience with babies via their own families or doing child care for others. That isn't to say we will try to tell you about babies. But it does mean we’d be completely comfortable if you wanted to hand over your newborn and grab a long shower.

2. We might actually know nothing about babies

On the other hand, some of us have maybe never even held a baby and might be terrified to do so. We will probably still hold them when you have a shower, but might need some coaching first.

3. We might not want kids of our own

All of us have been guilty at some point of assuming everyone has the same goals and life plans, especially about something as societally expected as having kids. But many of your kid-free friends, even the ones with houses and spouses, might never plan to have children. So try to avoid "you will understand when you have kids" talk.

4. We might want kids of our own very much

The flip side of that is that you might have friends who have been struggling with conception or carrying a pregnancy to term. Not everyone talks about going through this, so even close friends might not have shared it with you, especially as you were celebrating your own pregnancy and birth. So try not to tell anyone they are “so lucky not to have kids,” and be prepared for a few of your friends who might distance themselves for a bit if being around babies is too painful. It's not personal.

5. We have also done and are still doing a lot of very exhausting things

For sure, the sleep disruption that comes along with a new baby is exceptional. But if your friends are venting about pulling a two-day all-nighter to get a big report done or having to give up their vacation time to deal with a family crisis, please don't tell them that they don't actually understand what it means to be tired.

More: Where to Find Mom Friends

6. We might not know what our role in your life is right now

Even for a kid-free person who has been around babies a lot, it’s hard to know what our new parent friends need. Should we try to make plans to hang out with you or is it stressful to get those kinds of invites when you are adjusting to your new life? Should we comment on your posts about adjusting to having a baby or are you only looking to hear from fellow parents? Please feel free to let us know if you are not getting what you need from us.

7. We'll all figure it out together

Even if you do reach out, there will still likely be an adjustment period while we all find the new normal. There might be a lot of steps to figuring out how to best support each other and stay on each other’s day-to-day radar, and some of those are going to be missteps. Let's try not to feel too much doom and gloom if it takes us a few tries to settle in. We have the rest of our lives to get it right. What’s important is that we never stop trying.

In our current political climate, more people than ever are wondering: What can I do? How can I help? Laura Moser, a working mom based in Washington, D.C., came up with a pretty awesome way to help everyday people figure that out: Daily Action, a free daily text service that gives you one easy, doable action that can help make a difference in the thorny mess that is current American politics.

As part of our #MamasMakeChange series, in which we spotlight women who aren’t just moms — they’re also innovators and change-makers — Moser’s story will inspire you and make you realize that anyone with a great idea can make it a reality. Check out our Q&A with Moser, below to find out more about the genius of Daily Action.

More: 9 Young Black Creatives Who Are Making History

SheKnows: How many subscribers does Daily Action have now?

Laura Moser: [It's] 237,000, and growing every day!

SK: It’s early days in the Trump administration, but are there any measurable ways in which you’ve witnessed Daily Action making an impact? If you could envision where Daily Action is six months to a year from now, what do you hope to have accomplished?

LM: Well, we like to think our calls played a role in Republicans reversing their decision to gut the Office of Congressional Ethics. The many calls resulting from Daily Action recipients have also slowed down Mitch McConnell's attempts to fast-track the confirmation of Trump's unqualified Cabinet nominees. And more than that, we hope that we’ve fostered a culture of resistance — of teaching people how easy it is to speak up for what they believe. Within six months to a year, I hope we’ll be able to focus on more local actions — building networks of likeminded people in critical swing districts all over the country.

SK: What kinds of reactions have you gotten from people using Daily Action? I now subscribe, and am impressed with how it makes political action feel less intimidating and more doable.

LM: Most responses have been overwhelmingly positive, which you know is a rarity on the internet. People find political involvement daunting — I know I did! And DA takes all the legwork out of it. I still get requests to do things differently every day — people want scripts or multiple actions a day or the texts to arrive later or earlier, but the baseline response has been, “Thanks so much for doing this,” which of course feels great and makes me want to keep going.

SK: Do you anticipate any other larger projects in the same vein as Daily Action that will help motivate the masses to act? Or is Daily Action keeping you busy enough right now?

LM: Right now I am plenty busy with this one project! Like I said, I would love to see it take on a local aspect — to help get out the vote in state elections and to inform people of where protests and town halls are in their immediate area — which I already started doing in the contentious days after the Muslim and refugee ban was announced.

SK: Which political issues, of the many disturbing ones we’re currently facing, matter most to you and why? How hopeful are you feeling about Americans being able to stand up to Trump and preserve our democratic way of life over the next four years and beyond?

LM: I can't choose just one. Gutting Social Security and Medicare and the Affordable Care Act, rolling back the clock on a woman's right to choose, discriminating against Muslims and all sorts of immigrants, dismantling our public education system, lifting what few gun-buying restrictions we have, inciting a war — there are so many scary possibilities in the offing right now, but from what I've seen over the last few months, I’m very hopeful that we’ll be able to stand up to the ‘authoritarian-in-chief.’ As I repeat to myself every morning when I see the latest scary headline: There are more of us than there are of you. And we're not going anywhere.

More: This Sex Toy Company Founder Wants Women to Come First

If you want to sign up for Daily Action’s mobile alerts, it only takes a few seconds. Click here to get involved.

In a recent study, researchers found that these sudden mood shifts may be caused by a cellular disorder that creates a behavioral sensitivity to estrogen and progesterone.

More: Everything you want to know about menstrual cups

PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome that follows an anticipated, cyclic pattern. Symptoms become apparent in the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which occurs after ovulation, and ends shortly after menstruation begins. Many women with PMDD experience symptoms usually associated with PMS, but on a heightened level. Some women have reported feeling as though they are losing control of their bodies or that their self-esteem has declined.

While women commonly experience PMS, only 2 to 5 percent of women who are of reproductive age are affected by PMDD. PMDD is known to be extremely draining and uncomfortable for women of any age.

According to Dr. Peter Schmidt of NIH’s National Institute of Mental Health, Behavioral Endocrinology Branch, women with PMDD are more sensitive to the effects of sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone because of a molecular mechanism in their genes.

“We found dysregulated expression in a suspect gene complex which adds to evidence that PMDD is a disorder of cellular response to estrogen and progesterone,” Schmidt explained in a press release put forth by NIH. “Learning more about the role of this gene complex holds hope for improved treatment of such prevalent reproductive endocrine-related mood disorders.”

More: New marijuana-based capsule aims to eliminate PMS

The study that Schmidt worked on was published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry and indicated that cutting off estrogen and progesterone stopped symptoms of PMDD in women who had the condition. When the hormones were reintroduced, the PMDD symptoms reappeared.

By comparing white blood cells in women with PMDD and then in those without, researchers were able to confirm that PMDD impacts a woman’s cellular response to sex hormones.

In the late '90s, the NIMH team confirmed that women who regularly experience mood disorder symptoms just before their periods were abnormally sensitive to what is considered to be “normal changes” in sex hormones — even though their hormone levels remained normal. But until this year, the cause had always remained a mystery.

More: 6 PMS symptoms that are (and aren't) normal

“This is a big moment for women’s health,” said Dr. David Goldman, who worked alongside Schmidt on the study. “It establishes that women with PMDD have an intrinsic difference in their molecular apparatus for response to sex hormones — not just emotional behaviors they should be able to voluntarily control.”

By Shaye DiPasquale

Originally published on HelloFlo.

It's almost time for the 2017 Academy Awards, and Meryl Streep is already speaking out regarding some Oscars drama. This time, it isn't concerning politics, like her 2017 Golden Globes acceptance speech. It's about what she's going to wear on the red carpet.

More: Print Out Meryl Streep's Golden Globes Speech and Read It Every Day

In an interview with Women's Wear Daily, Chanel creative director Karl Lagerfeld accused Streep of enlisting a different designer to create her 2017 Oscars gown because she wanted to receive financial compensation for wearing it that Chanel wouldn't provide.

Lagerfeld claimed that days after his team had started working on an embroidered gray silk dress for the Florence Foster Jenkins star, someone from Streep's team allegedly called him and said, "Don't continue the dress. We found somebody who will pay us."

"A genius actress, but cheapness also, no?" Lagerfeld added.

More: An Analysis of Meryl Streep & Donald Trump's Lives So Far — Who's the Overrated One?

Following the comments, Streep's rep said in a statement, "This is a completely untrue story. Ms. Streep would never wear anything in exchange for payment."

Lagerfeld then released a statement of his own in hopes of clarifying his comments.

"Chanel engaged in conversations with Ms. Streep's stylist, on her request, to design a dress for her to wear to the Academy Awards. After an informal conversation, I misunderstood that Ms. Streep may have chosen another designer due to remuneration, which Ms. Streep's team has confirmed is not the case," Lagerfeld said in his statement. "I regret this controversy and wish Ms. Streep well with her 20th Academy Award nomination."

More: The Outrage Over Meryl Streep Getting an Oscar Nom Over Amy Adams Is So Real

Despite Lagerfeld's clarification, Streep is still not having it. She released a statement to E! News regarding his comments and says she's still waiting for an apology.

"In reference to Mr. Lagerfeld's 'statement,' there is no 'controversy': Karl Lagerfeld, a prominent designer, defamed me, my stylist, and the illustrious designer whose dress I chose to wear, in an important industry publication. That publication printed this defamation, unchecked. Subsequently, the story was picked up globally, and continues, globally, to overwhelm my appearance at the Oscars, on the occasion of my record-breaking 20th nomination, and to eclipse this honor in the eyes of the media, my colleagues and the audience. I do not take this lightly, and Mr. Lagerfeld's generic 'statement' of regret for this 'controversy' was not an apology," Streep said in her statement. "He lied, they printed the lie and I am still waiting."

Yikes. The drama!

However, we don't think this news is really overwhelming Streep's appearance at the Oscars. Plus, we'll have much more Oscars drama to talk about soon enough.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

The Pisces solar eclipse ushers in new beginnings on Sunday, but we’re afforded the whole week to reflect. Comprehend your progress and evolution over the past two years, and embrace resolutions for a fresh start. Renewal is promised and action can now begin.

Another major planetary movement kicks off this Saturday. Venus retrograde promises to fan the flames of passion in all exchanges — friendships, relationships and even financial transactions will be running at high frequency these next few weeks. Remember the golden rule: Retrogrades are good for reviews and rediscovery, bad for permanent decisions made in haste.

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Focus on compassion and forgiveness — if there are lingering issues to surrender, take action, embracing perspectives that serve you: body, mind, soul and spirit. It’s possible you’ll be set on just the right path this week.

With Venus retrograde in your sign, take a very literal, physical pause. You’re an impulsive character. However, rash, permanent decisions across love, friendship or any partnerships are ill advised — that goes for makeovers too. Thinking could be way off, so rather than make assertive moves, take time to review.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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Craving community? Fresh beginnings are offered within your group or perhaps a new crew’s in sight. The months ahead introduce a social network that’s altered as you or they change course. You might find yourself in the spotlight among this crowd Wednesday and engaged with them on Saturday.

With your ruler Venus back-spinning through the hidden area of your horoscope, all sorts of past issues could come up for review. Strive for closure, as you’re capable of deep healing in the weeks to come.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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Hone in on your ambitions as the new moon signals fresh starts in your overarching goals and career path. Focus on how you’re putting yourself out there; let your imagination soar and set the bar high.

Venus retrograde touches teammates and your wider group, so although your well-meaning friends have been getting along like a house on fire, be mindful — the heat is on. You might find yourself deliberating romantic liaisons, but remember to take it easy. No sudden moves!

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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The eclipse offers a visionary fresh start; harness this new moon to expand your horizons and elevate your learning. Quietly focus on seeding ideas you’d like to see flourish connected with travel, education or a venture that aligns with your true purpose.

Venus prompts a review of how you appear to the world. Major change may already be ignited in this arena; however, with your public profile in a heightened state of attention, think twice about permanent alterations to your look.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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You can turn a corner on a joint investment or private affair that’s holding your focus. Whether you’re preparing to co-sign a legal document, gathering resources or deepening relationships, new beginnings are offered, now and in months to come.

Long-distance adventures appeal, and you’re compelled to take a leap of faith or grow your knowledge in dynamic ways. However, Venus will retrograde through this expansive part of your horoscope. Plan to spread your wings (and buy flexible travel tickets).

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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The theme of new beginnings lands squarely in your close, personal relationships — time to define the characters you’d like to see sitting across from you, across work, love and your most significant playmates. They’ll appear now and in months to come.

While fresh starts unfold, in many ways collaborations are up for review as Venus backtracks across your most intimate dealings. You won’t put off any house-clearing conversations as you evaluate investments made, both in people and material matters.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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In months to come, you could experience sweeping changes to your schedule, daily practices and habits. If you’re looking for a new job or to vary your routines, now’s an opportune moment to contemplate your path.

On Saturday, your ruler Venus appears retrograde, stirring dynamics in significant relationships, kicking the action up a notch or two. Personal exchanges will experience an even bigger buzz, drawing more of your attention. Evaluate your part in partnerships, knowing presently they’re heightened to fever pitch.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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Feeling the love? Fresh starts are promised to arrive in playful and romantic ways — this week could make your heart swell as affections soar, and you’ll turn the focus toward your true passion.

At work, you’ve been mastering the details with zealous drive, implementing genius new structures or finding ways to increase productivity — maybe you’ve been on a health kick. You could be tempted to overanalyze daily habits in weeks to come, but don’t forego a positive regime for faddish passing trends.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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New beginnings in your domestic sphere can be considered this week. In months to come, your home life recalibrates with a refreshing boost. Acknowledge the shift and think imaginatively about your foundations.

You’re in a particularly creative phase, with an impulsive quality to your pleasure seeking. It’s easy to express yourself presently with a passionate, fun spring in your step; however, Venus retrograde will tussle with this playful mood, creating extra excitement and even drama. Avoid lavish outlays and overly demonstrative gestures.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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Draw awareness toward communication and connectivity — your place within close circles is refreshed now, with new perspectives on offer. You’ll learn through exploring your community or sibling relations. Use your imagination to gather ideas and information.

Surprises at home continue to demand attention; however, by the end of the week you’ll be in a better position to assert yourself, even if thinking isn’t entirely clear. Venus retrograde touches your domestic sector; pay extra attention to finances and female relations on your doorstep.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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Speaking your truth is incredibly affirmative, and this week your words have even more power, so volunteer how you’d like to be valued. Name your price or label your skills — it’s a fortuitous time for you to consider and confirm your role.

You’ll want to raise your voice; however, with lovely Venus backpedaling through your communication zone, moderate your message. Those closest to you understand your radical ways, but better to mind your manners in moments when you’re all fired up.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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The eclipse offers a very personal fresh start, and with cerebral Mercury now in your sign, you’re well-equipped to realize a practical plan of action. This week could provide perfect conditions to move ahead if you’ve been waiting to assert yourself, looking for a reward or considering a change of course. By Saturday, you’ll be clearer on your new trajectory.

Venus Retrograde touches money, valuables and your sense of pleasure — don’t panic if your feel-good factor wavers on the 4th.

More: What show you should watch based on your astrological sign

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Steven Universe is a cartoon about a boy who lives with three immortal aliens, each with their own superpower. It’s also a show about gender, sexuality, trauma, mental illness and abusive relationships. And it may be the most important show on TV right now.

It might seem like your typical goofy-but-fun children’s fare, but the show is much, much more than that. The cartoon has, since its inception in late 2013, dealt with topics that some shows aimed at adults wouldn’t dare approach. And while it’s not a replacement for important conversations with your children, Steven Universe is an excellent starting point.

It’s tough to describe Steven Universe without falling down a rabbit hole of complicated plot details. But here’s the basic breakdown: Steven Universe is a young boy who lives in the fictional Beach City with his three guardians, Garnet, Pearl and Amethyst — all of whom are immortal genderless gemstone aliens who immigrated to Earth from their home planet after a war.

More: 14 Movies and TV Shows That Educate Kids About Diversity

These three aliens — better known as the Crystal Gems — have helped raise Steven since he was a young boy and act as parents, teachers and protectors of Earth. Steven, who is half Gem himself, tags along and helps in their adventures, which are sometimes accompanied by (awfully catchy) musical numbers.

The show can be silly, sure: Steven and co. spend an episode trying to hide from the bad guys  — and somehow end up challenging them to a baseball game. And it’s through those whimsical trappings that the show delves deep into profound subject matter.

Gender expression and sexuality

Through the act of “fusion,” Gems can combine their beings into one. This can be read as sex, although it isn’t explicit at all, and the comparison falls apart when Steven and his best friend Connie, both young teens, fuse later in the show. The most notable fusion happens between two Gems, Ruby and Sapphire — the first two Gems to ever fuse for purposes other than utility and simply combining physical strength. When they fuse — into Garnet — their fellow Gems are appalled and disgusted, casting the newly formed Garnet out of their midst. This can open discussions about same-sex relationships and how they can sometimes be perceived by others. Because Garnet is a main character and Ruby and Sapphire’s love is shown as true and strong, you can easily segue into how your child would treat someone like Ruby or Sapphire, and how their relationship is just as valid as people of different genders.

Trauma and grief

Steven’s mother, Rose Quartz, met his father — the awesome and entirely human Greg — and chose to give up her physical form to give birth to Steven. As a result, Steven has never met his mother; he’s only ever heard stories. While everyone around him knows what Rose was like, he has to come to terms with the fact that the stories he hears might not paint a full picture of his mother. This is an excellent portrayal of losing someone close to you, perhaps before you ever got the chance to know them. Pearl, who knew Rose for hundreds of years, loved her, and is still dealing with the complicated feelings of Rose choosing Greg and deciding to die for Steven. It takes a few seasons, but Pearl eventually recognizes her need to let go of Rose and move on. Discussions about death and grief are tough no matter when they’re brought up, but using these characters as jumping-off points can help the conversation go a bit more smoothly.

Nontraditional families

Even though Greg doesn’t live with Steven or the Gems, he is incredibly involved in his son’s life and forgoes the single dad trope of laziness and distance. Other families involve a mother and stepfather, a single mother, two working parents and countless others. Whether or not your family is considered “traditional,” this is a great way to show your children that all types of families should be seen as valid and worthwhile.

More: 7 TV Shows That Parents and Kids Can Enjoy Together

Abuse

Jasper, a militaristic enemy Gem from the planet Homeworld, forces another Gem, Lapis Lazuli, to fuse with her, and the implications of rape and abuse are hard to miss. It’s a tough scene to watch, and Lapis’ journey after this incident clearly shows the lasting effects of abuse and trauma — and how, sometimes, you might even miss your abuser.

While these topics are important to speak to your child about at any age, maybe wait until they’re in double digits before introducing them to Steven and the Crystal Gems. Common Sense Media suggests Steven Universe watchers should be 10 years or older, and parents on the site say you can go as young as 8 years.

These can all be heavy subjects to broach, but children will undoubtedly benefit from learning how to healthfully deal with loss, recognize signs of abuse and open their minds to those who might be different from them. Steven Universe might be branded as a kids’ show, but the heartfelt, genuine way it deals with real-world adult issues places it leaps and bounds beyond the rest.

When you’re with someone, it makes sense that you would do everything you can to keep your relationship happy and healthy. But of course, nobody is perfect, and sometimes you may end up doing things that sabotage your relationship — and you don’t even realize you’re doing them.

“Dysfunction in romantic relationships can take many forms and can look very different with different couples,” says Manhattan-based licensed clinical psychologist Joseph Cilona. That’s why we got top relationship experts to weigh in on the most common ways people unintentionally undermine their relationship. Here are the biggies to look out for.

You badmouth your partner to others

Sure, it makes sense that you’d want to vent to a girlfriend after you have a bad fight, but repeatedly complaining about your partner to other people isn’t a good thing, says licensed clinical psychologist Ramani Durvasula, author of Should I Stay or Should I Go? Not only would your partner be hurt if they knew, regularly saying bad things about your S.O. paints a negative picture in the minds of your friends and family that may not be accurate — and that can come back to haunt you in the future.

You can’t get over the past

“One of the most common ways people accidentally sabotage romantic relationships is by projecting past experiences in romantic relationships onto a current relationship and new person,” says Cilona. “Hurt and betrayal from a past relationship can be particularly impactful and can often influence new relationships through things like faulty and unfair assumptions and extreme or inappropriate emotional reactions.” Reactions that are rooted in the past and related to a past relationship, but triggered by an event or behavior in a new relationship almost always cause trouble and dysfunction, he says.

You get defensive

Disagreements happen, and if your partner raises an issue with you, it’s important to at least hear them out. Being defensive, on the other hand, is the opposite of that. “Defensiveness sabotages the relationship because it does not allow your partner to feel heard,” says licensed marriage and family therapist David Klow, owner of Skylight Counseling Center in Chicago. And, if your partner doesn’t feel like they’re being heard, it’s probably going to lead to more fighting.

More: Women Don't Want More Sex — They Want Better Sex

Criticisms outweigh praise

It’s an easy trap to fall into: You only speak up when you disagree with something your partner says or does, but forget to do the same when they do something great. This can be a dangerous cycle to fall into. “If you are constantly critical of your partner, then it deteriorates the relationship,” Klow says. Durvasula agrees, noting that “not letting your partner know you are grateful for small things” can cause issues.

You brush off partner’s vulnerabilities

Everyone feels vulnerable on some level and sensitive about particular topics. But not understanding your partner's preferences, vulnerabilities and sensitive spots — chronically pushing those buttons — is a recipe for disaster, Durvasula says.

You check your partner’s phone

Even if they don’t know you’re doing a quick perusal of their texts or glancing at their emails, that’s a sign of a lack of trust, which is “almost ubiquitous to troubled and dysfunctional relationships,” Cilona says. The lack of trust may be due to something that happened in your past or perhaps something in your current relationship is causing it. Whatever it is, it needs to be addressed — before you get caught red-handed.

If you realize you’re accidentally sabotaging your relationship, it’s time to do something about it. Durvasula recommends taking stock of the situation: Do you actually want to be in the relationship or are you doing all of these things because you don’t want to stay with your partner and aren’t sure how to end it? “If you want out, then get out,” she says. But if you want to maintain your relationship, it’s important to stop these behaviors. “If your sabotage has actually taken a toll on the relationship, then communicate your awareness of your behavior to your partner and apologize,” she says. “That can go a long way.“

But if you know you’re inviting dysfunction into your relationship and can’t pinpoint why, Klow says it’s probably a good idea to look into counseling for yourself. “Individual therapy can help with this process of self-reflection,” he says.

More: 19 Signs You're in a Strong Relationship

Ever since the inauguration, I’ve been scouring the internet searching for ways to be the best ally I can be to Latino and Mexican-Americans, immigrants, refugees, women of color and so on. But I had momentarily forgotten that I, a bipolar disabled trans man, also desperately need some allies right now. Especially after the news about the “religious freedom” executive order came to my attention.

I’ve been asked countless times this past month about how to be the best trans ally in these current times. After pondering it for weeks, I settled on 10 actions by allies to trans folks that can make a huge difference right now. Whichever one or handful of actions you choose to follow up with in the coming weeks are hugely appreciated. Because no act of compassion or activism is too small.

Ask everyone their pronouns

Part of practicing being a trans ally is understanding that a person’s appearance or gender presentation does not always indicate their gender identity, and therefore, their gender pronouns. A good rule of thumb is to ask everyone what their pronouns are. The best-case scenario: Your gender nonconforming or trans friend feels respected and validated by you. Worst-case scenario: A cisgender friend ignorant to trans issues looks at you funny.

More: 8 Things transgender people are sick of hearing

Share links about gender-expansive identities on social media

Spread the word about issues affecting the trans community as well as the concept of gender fluidity through sharing stories from trans-friendly publications like Everyday Feminism and The Establishment. Since stories like these often elicit some challenging responses from more close-minded folks, it’s best to create a buffer between the community and transphobes through education by allies.

Stay informed

Pay attention to publications, hashtags and news about trans issues and violence. Bring attention to tragedies in the community as well as the people directly affected by the violence. So often, names like Jazz Alford and Keyonna Blakeney go unrecognized due to lack of media coverage of the murder of trans women. Say their names, and get others to say their names too.

Additionally, call your local representatives and protest the pending religious freedom bill (which would legalize discrimination toward LGBT people) and other orders that may affect the community.

Educate yourself on the terminology

Nail down the difference between “sex assigned at birth,” “gender identity” and “gender presentation.” Learn the differences between “nonbinary,” “agender” and “demigirl.” Familiarize yourself with appropriate and inappropriate conversations to have with trans folks (for example, asking about pronouns is fine, but asking about genitals and gender-affirming surgery is way uncool). The best way to be supportive of the trans community is not to force them be the translator of their entire community’s experience. Everyone’s journey is certainly different, and there’s lots to learn about each individual. But when it comes to questions out of curiosity and/or about definitions, just Google it! Impart this wisdom to your cis friends.

Volunteer your time

Sign up to be an operator for Transline, a trans-centered crisis line. Or apply to become a hotline operator for The Trevor Project, an organization that aims to prevent suicide in all LGBTQIA+ youth. If taking crisis calls isn’t your thing, then consider donating to The Trevor Project, GLAAD or the National Center for Transgender Equality.

More: A transgender dad tells us what it's like to show up at La Leche League

Call out instances of transphobia

Do not take part when your friends laugh about “a man in a dress,” and explain to them how that behavior is harmful. Ask your friends who feign well-intended shock when they see an AMAB individual execute a perfect winged eye or highlight if their internalized transphobia is preventing them from seeing that AFAB folks don’t own beauty. Correct your friends when they misgender someone. Participating in active allyship with care and intention is endlessly appreciated by the trans people it affects.

Never misgender your friends

Go out of your way to properly gender your friends and adjust to pronouns that are new to you in your own time. Never make someone feel guilty about how difficult it is to use or remember their pronouns. When you slip up, it can definitely feel embarrassing and compel you not to want to bring much more attention to it. But as someone who has been misgendered many times over, I can say that many trans people prefer if you just correct yourself then and there. Accountability, regardless of slipups, means everything. This applies to when the person isn’t around or when you’re alone as well — take care to always use a friend’s pronouns and chosen name.

Use inclusive language

Include trans people in your feminist spaces by avoiding gendered language. “Empowering women” and “female orgasm” can feel pretty exclusionary and isolating to gender nonconforming folks as well as trans men and women. If it’s absolutely necessary, use more fluid terms like “masculine” and “AMAB” (assigned male at birth) or “feminine” and “AFAB” (assigned female at birth).

Expand your idea of gender inequality

In white cis feminist circles, gender inequality and sexism are most often discussed as oppression from cisgender men placed onto cisgender women. While this certainly does exist and deserves room for conversation, there are many more oppressive gender dynamics at play. To be a great trans ally, it’d be crucial for you to know how cis women oppress trans people, how trans men oppress trans women, how trans men and women can oppress gender nonconforming folks, and how trans women of color endure the most oppression. As a feminist and a trans ally, the only way to work toward true gender equality is by understanding all of these things.

More: Boy Scouts Reverse Transgender Policy — but What Took Them So Long?

Acknowledge the fluidity of your own gender

Validate within yourself any gender fluidity you’ve ever felt. Experiment with whatever look or label feels right. No matter how you identify, even if you’ll always identify as cis, liberate yourself from gendered constraints in the same way you liberate others to see a more neutral image of yourself. What you see might surprise you or it might not surprise you at all — as long as you stay aware of gender variances in each human, you can always be understanding of the gender identities of others.

By Meg Zulch

Originally published on HelloFlo.

There were plenty of major fashion statements being made on the 2017 Oscars red carpet, but one accessory made a political statement, too. Celebrities at the 2017 Oscars wearing blue ACLU ribbons made their political voices heard without saying a word.

More: Take a Stroll Through Oscars Past in GIFs — Starting From the 1930s

The ribbons, according to a statement made to The Hollywood Reporter, are part of the initiative "Stand With the ACLU" and are meant to act "as a symbol of solidarity with the nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, which has worked for nearly 100 years to defend and protect individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution and law of the U.S."

The first major arrivals to the red carpet were Ruth Negga (nominated for Best Actress for her role in Loving) and Lin-Manuel Miranda (nominated for Best Original Song for "How Far I'll Go" from Moana). Negga, Miranda and Miranda's mother, who was also his date for the evening, were sporting the ACLU ribbons. While they all looked stunning in their respective outfits, it was the ribbons that got tongues wagging on social media.

Seriously, I know it's difficult to look away from the beauty of Negga (it's a bit like looking directly into the sun, right?), but if you squint, you can see her blue ribbon standing out.

More: The Oscars 2017 Presenters List Alone Will Get You Pumped for the Show

Miranda and his mother look like absolute treasures, but those blue ribbons they're wearing make their outfits some of the best of the evening.

Karlie Kloss also showed up on the Oscars red carpet in a stunning white gown and white cape, but it was the blue ACLU ribbon pinned on the lower half of her dress that was eye-catching.

More: Meryl Streep and Karl Lagerfeld's Oscars Dress Drama Is Just Plain Petty

Not only do those ACLU ribbons look beautiful, but they'll hopefully leave a lasting impression on those watching the 2017 Oscars as well. For more info on how you can support the ACLU, go here.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Hollywood lost a heavyweight this weekend. Titanic and Apollo 13 actor Bill Paxton died at 61 after suffering surgery complications.

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His family released a statement via a representative confirming the news: "It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery. A loving husband and father, Bill began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker. Bill’s passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable. We ask to please respect the family’s wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their adored husband and father."

More: John Hurt, Prolific English Character Actor, Has Died at 77

Paxton's fellow actors and co-workers quickly took to social media following the news, remembering him as a brilliant, wonderful, warm man.

Paxton can currently be seen on TV starring in the CBS drama Training Day, which just premiered on Feb. 2. It's unclear now whether the network will continue to air the episodes to completion despite Paxton's death.

More: Sopranos Actor Frank Pellegrino Dead at 72

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

The 2017 Oscars had barely begun when Moonlight director Barry Jenkins gave a powerful political remark during a red carpet interview on why his Oscar-nominated film was incredibly timely and important.

More: The Oscars 2017 Presenters List Alone Will Get You Pumped for the Show

During a red carpet interview with Variety, Jenkins (who cleaned up nicely with Moonlight at the Independent Spirit Awards) was asked to expand on why Moonlight resonates so deeply in the current political climate. Jenkins' reply was absolutely beautiful: "I think it's because we told the truth. That's the only thing I can think of. The movie is brutally authentic, but also, in a certain way, it's wonderfully magical and beautiful because of the way we grew up — myself and [Moonlight co-writer] Tarrell McCraney — had all those things at the center of it, all that duality."

But it was Jenkins' next answer that is perhaps the most chilling and perfect. To the question "Why do you think that now was the right time that [Moonlight] finally came about?" Jenkins was quick to answer: "I wish I would have made it sooner or at least tried to. I think things happen, you know? It's funny: We made this film when it was a much safer space, it was a different president, it was a different social, cultural climate. Yet it exists in this moment right now when people can look to it and see this affirmation that otherness is not a detriment to American society. So I'm glad the movie exists as it does when it does."

More: What Mahershala Ali's Life Looked Like Before Moonlight

Moonlight has been on everyone's lips during Oscars season, with many hoping it will win the Oscar for Best Picture, if not all the awards it is currently nominated for. Cited and praised time and again for its specific view into black queerness and especially black male queerness in contemporary America, Moonlight has quickly become a critical darling since its release in late 2016.

More: The Outrage Over Meryl Streep Getting an Oscar Nom Over Amy Adams Is So Real

Jenkins' comments only serve to remind us that not every movie needs to resonate with every viewer but that the inclusion of other stories in the mainstream moviegoing experience are vital. During the political climate Americans face right now and going forward, it's incredibly true that otherness should not be a divisive force but rather a moment to experience the world through new eyes.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Dwayne Johnson, the daddy, is the best version of Dwayne Johnson.

Which is why, when Johnson said that if his animated film Moana doesn't win an Oscar, he's going to go home and make more babies, I don't really think that sounds too bad. I wholeheartedly support that decision.

More: Dwayne Johnson Cries Over His Relationship With His Daughter (VIDEO)

I mean, have you seen him with his kids? It's probably the most adorable thing in the world.

"I got my lucky Rock shirt on just in case we win," Johnson said in an Instagram video before the big show. "If we do win, as many of you know, I'm going straight to In-N-Out Burger and I'm going to destroy burgers and fries in a celebratory victory. I'm taking cheat meals to a whole new level. If we lose, then I'm gonna go home and make more babies. See, on Oscar night, in the world of DJ, we all win. There are no losers."

True that.

More: All the Hottest Dwayne Johnson GIFs for Your Pleasure

I just wonder how his longtime girlfriend, Lauren Hashian, feels about that proposition. They just had a baby a little more than a year ago, so she might be more inclined to take the burgers. However, the couple's 1-year-old daughter, Jasmine, was Hashian's first, so the Rock might not have been kidding about his baby-making plans.

More: We're Just So Obsessed With Dwayne Johnson Right Now

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

One of our favorite Hollywood couples, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel, just got a bit cheeky on the 2017 Oscars red carpet and we couldn't be more amused.

Timberlake, a singer, composer and actor, strutted down the red carpet at the Oscars tonight with Biel, an actress and his stunning wife. He wore a traditional black-and-white tuxedo; she was decked out in a full-length gold dress with a fan-style neckline. But it wasn't the designer duds that entranced us. It was Timberlake's sense of fun and the overall goofiness he exhibited by photobombing Biel that had us cracking up.

More: Most Talked-About Looks on the 2017 Oscars Red Carpet

But why shouldn't Timberlake be giddy? He's nominated for his first Oscar for his original song "Can't Stop the Feeling" from the disco-licious animated film Trolls. If he wins the award tonight, he'll be sharing it with Swedish composers Max Martin and Shellback.

Considering that the Golden Globe for Best Song went to La La Land, the odds don't seem to be in Timberlake's favor tonight, but on the positive side, his love for Biel seems to be going strong. His playfulness and joy in these photos are evidence that he's very much in love with the mother of his son, Silas.

Timberlake also couldn't resist photobombing Emma Stone, who's nominated for Best Actress for La La Land.

And we still can't get over how she reacted to it. Just another reason to love Stone.

More: All the Times Women Made TV and Film History Going Back to 1915

Timberlake is currently working on the TV show King of the Golden Sun, about a team of treasure hunters searching for an ancient statue. Expect the show to premiere in January 2018.

Biel has recently finished work on two films: Shock and Awe, about journalists covering the Iraq war, and Sinner, about a young mother with violent tendencies. Sinner will air on television later this year.

More: The Most Ferocious Feuds From Hollywood's Golden Age

Best of luck tonight, Timberlake!

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

The 2017 Oscars opened up with a hilarious bang when host Jimmy Kimmel's opening monologue made some playful jabs at Oscars attendees, including his longtime "frenemy," actor Matt Damon. The jokes were political, hilarious and altogether a perfect way to kick off the evening.

More: Most Talked-About Looks on the 2017 Oscars Red Carpet

Damon was one of the many targets Kimmel took aim at during his (hopefully) soon-to-be iconic opening monologue. Damon and Kimmel have a longstanding "feud," playful in nature but definitely always ready to get reheated when the occasion calls for it. In Kimmel's monologue, he spoke about America healing the political divide by coming together with those who have different views from each other. He soon quipped, "Now, Matt — I've known Matt for a long time.... When I first met Matt, I was the fat one." Hoo boy, that's some good shade, y'all.

But Kimmel wasn't done yet. "Matt, as you know, could have starred in Manchester by the Sea," he went on. "He made a Chinese ponytail movie instead." Kimmel was referencing Damon's recent action flick The Great Wall, which has not had quite the critical success that Manchester has recently received.

More: 4 Celebs Made a Political Statement the Second They Arrived at the Oscars

Another absolutely hilarious jab Kimmel got was, again, more in the lighthearted vein than the outwardly cruel. Kimmel moved from Damon to iconic actor Meryl Streep. Well, to most, Streep is iconic; to Kimmel, she was "overrated," which was a now-jokey callback to President Donald Trump's comments about Streep following her incisive speech at the 2017 Golden Globes.

"We're also here to honor the actors that seem great but actually really aren't. And of all the 'great' actors, here in Hollywood, one in particular has stood the test of time for her many uninspiring and overrated performances. From her mediocre early work in The Deer Hunter and Out of Africa to her underwhelming performances in Kramer vs. Kramer and Sophie’s Choice, Meryl Streep has phoned it in from more than 50 films over the course of her lackluster career. The highly overrated Meryl Streep, everyone," Kimmel finished, and encouraged everyone to stand up and applaud her.

More: What to Do If Alleged Assaulter Casey Affleck Wins an Oscar Sunday Night

Kimmel absolutely nailed his opening monologue. And those jabs? A truly tasty cherry on top.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

"She just got nominated for an Emmy for that speech," 2017 Oscars host Jimmy Kimmel joked when the Oscars returned from the commercial break after a truly amazing acceptance speech was given. Kimmel was speaking about Viola Davis, whose acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actress proved that not only is she worthy of winning but damn, she can give a hell of a speech.

More: Meryl Streep Gets Standing Ovation for Her 'Lackluster' Career

Davis looked awestruck when she took the stage. For the next few minutes, she proceeded to give her thanks, express her awe, state what this role and Fences meant to her and enlighten the audience as to why she chose to become an artist. She apparently delivered the speech without notes.

She began with, "There’s one place that all the people with the greatest potential are gathered. One place—and that’s the graveyard. People ask me all the time, 'What kind of stories do you want to tell, Viola?' And I say, 'Exhume those bodies, exhume those stories—the stories of the people who dreamed big and never saw those dreams to fruition. People who fell in love and lost.' I became an artist and thank god I did, because we are the only profession that celebrates what it means to live a life."

More: The Best Part of the Oscars Red Carpet Was Justin Timberlake's Photobombs

I mean, I'm breathless and left with chills just re-reading those words but to hear Davis speak them (admittedly with a tremble of honor in her voice) made from some truly great television. How is it that Davis always knows exactly what to say? And how does she manage to say it so poetically and eloquently?

Davis also — incredibly, gobsmackingly, etc. — became the first black female actor to win an Oscar, Emmy and Tony for acting. Ever. In the history of the respective awards. Is it too soon to start building a shrine to her glory?

More: All the Times Women Made TV & Film History Dating Back to 1915

I think it's safe to say that Davis absolutely deserves her Oscar and from here on out, we should bring her onstage whenever a speech needs to be made. She nailed it.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Moana actress, Auli'i Cravalho, sang the Oscar-nominated song, "How Far I'll Go" at tonight's Academy Awards but got a little more than she expected when she was struck in the head by a flying blue sheet.

Just 16-years old, Auli'i Cravalho impressed audiences with her live in more ways than one tonight. Having voiced the lead role of Moana, it was delightful to see her precious face fill with determination and joy as she belted out the song, "How Far I'll Go," that was written by Hamilton star, Lin-Manuel Miranda.

More: Linsday Lohan really wants to star in The Little Mermaid

With a dozen or so dancers behind Cravalho wielding aqua-blue sheets to represent undulating ocean waves, it must have come as quite a surprise to her when one "wave" slapped her on the head. Luckily, Cravalho didn't appear to be injured and kept singing as if nothing happened. Pretty smooth for such a young performer. We could even say it was very princess-like.

Cravalho's right eye simply winces as the sheet whips the side of her head, proving she's a real pro. The Twitter-sphere agreed.

More: We Spotted 11 Nostalgic Callbacks in the New Beauty and the Beast Trailer

Some on people on Twitter are even making a big Cravalho-Hamilton connection:

Could we actually see Cravalho in Hamilton? She's so talented, it's certainly a possibility. The fact that she knows Miranda gives her an in.

More: Positive Princess Role Models

Born in Kohala, Hawaii, in 2000, Cravalho is of Native Hawaiian, Portuguese, Puerto Rican, Irish and Chinese descent. As the first Polynesian Disney princess, she's won the 2017 EDA Female Focus Award and the 2017 Annie Award. We seriously hope that a Tony award is next for her.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

So, Jamie Dornan is kinda persona non grata in my book after his slightly awkward moment with Fifty Shades Darker co-star Dakota Johnson. Listen, your good looks will only take you so far, Dornan; you can't just go throwing my girl Johnson under the bus at the 2017 Oscars and expect to get away with it.

More: Most Talked-About Looks on the 2017 Oscars Red Carpet

Dornan and Johnson took to the Oscars stage to present when things got awkward pretty quickly. Johnson took a moment to turn to Dornan and quietly joked, "You look familiar." Dornan calmly wagged his eyebrows and said, "Yeah, I know."

Uh, Dornan, it's called "repartee." Participate, please. The cameras are actually turned on. We can see and hear you.

More: The Best Part of the Oscars Red Carpet Was Justin Timberlake's Photobombs

Johnson valiantly kept cool and plowed on while Dornan dissolved the tension as they followed the script. But wow, you'd think that after spending months together filming maybe one of the steamiest, sexiest films of 2017, Dornan would add least be able to banter around with Johnson a little bit better without coming across like he's so over it, no?

More: Give Auli'i Cravalho an Excedrin & an Oscar Because She Crushed Her Performance

Praying for you, Dornan.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Shots fired once again in the war between Donald Trump and the media. And it's getting even uglier.

Trump has made it his mission to tear down the media since he entered into office. And the tirade against them, deserved or not, has only gotten worse.

More: Matt Lauer Was Basically All of Us While Talking to Kellyanne Conway

He recently refused to allow CNN, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Politico and more from attending the White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer's briefing last Friday.

Then, after many outlets opted out of the White House Correspondents' Dinner in protest of the new administration, including Vanity Fair, The New York Times and Buzzfeed News, Trump announced he would not be in attendance.

The New York Times is also taking their outcry to television. Tonight during the Oscars, they aired an ad proclaiming they are truth tellers.

It's a necessary proclamation, unfortunately, since Trump has used every opportunity to call them out. Like today, when he heard about the ad.

I know, as a journalist, I'm crazy biased in this war, but a president's job, in my humble opinion, is to unite and inspire our country. A journalist's job is to keep that president in check. Yes, The New York Times has been critical of Trump, but that's kind of their job. Especially given what he's doing with the office of the president.

More: Chelsea Clinton Just Became Our Favorite Donald Trump Troll

And it's far from just The New York Times that is trying to wrangle Trump into some sort of responsibility. Most journalists are attempting it.

I don't really think an Oscar ad is the wakeup call the country needs, but at least The Times is trying something.

Thanks to the constitution (and, well, hopefully because of the constitution) there is only so far Trump can take this battle. But I have a feeling it's far from over. Still, a little criticism never stopped fair and honest reporting before. Unfortunately, it hasn't stopped Trump either.

More: 10 Awesome Feminist Quotes From Republican Congresswomen

Do you think The Times' ad was effective?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Jimmy Kimmel charmed the Oscars audience tonight, making them laugh, too. But it was Twitter that went crazy after Kimmel tweeted to Donal Trump.

Late night talk show host, Jimmy Kimmel, brought a lot of humor or the 2017 Academy Awards. From bringing real tourists into the Kodak Theater, to having actors read mean tweets, he's by far one of the most clever comedians to ever host the three-plus hour show.

More: Give Auli'i Cravalho an Exedrin and an Oscar Because she Crushed her Performance

Never one to get too political, Kimmel addressed Hollywood's Trump-tension in the best way possible – by tweeting to the president himself.

After remarking that at two hours into the show, Trump hadn't tweeted anything about the Oscars, or Meryl Streep, whom Trump once said was "overrated" after the Oscar-winning actress read Trump the riot act at the Golden Globes.

So Kimmel did what any celebrity on social media would do by simply tweeting this:

The audience laughed at the real tweet that was shown on a giant screen above the stage, but it was the Twitter-sphere that jumped on the tweet. The message to Trump was retweeted 4.3k times in less than a minute.

More: Most Talked-About Looks on the 2017 Oscars Red Carpet

But to add even more fun to the tweets, Kimmel then tweeted this:

Streep herself chuckled big over this one. Now the #MerylSaysHi is getting plenty of love, too.

Considering the tense political climate is the elephant in the room, we're glad Kimmel addressed it without getting overtly mean or ugly, but we always knew he was a class act.

More: The Best Part of the Oscars Red Carpet Was Justin Timberlake's Photobombs

As of 8:39 p.m., Pacific Standard Time, the President has not yet responded to Kimmel's tweet.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

We may have all been shaking our butts and tapping our toes when Justin Timberlake opened up the 2017 Oscars with his Oscar-nominated song, "Can't Stop the Feeling," but there was weirdness a-brewing off camera.

More: Jamie Dornan Was in No Mood to Humor Dakota Johnson at the 2017 Oscars

It appeared that once Timberlake had finished performing, when he went to go say hello to former Mickey Mouse Club co-star and Oscar nominee Ryan Gosling, the reunion didn't go too well. Gosling appeared nonplussed to received Timberlake into his arms. Timberlake appeared to try and pal around like it was 1993 but Gosling just wasn't having it. Maybe he thought he was too cool for Timberlake now that he's in one of the most Oscar-nominated films of all time?

Not only that, but during Timberlake's performance, Gosling didn't appear to be having any of it. He's not even look at him!

Their weird embrace and general aura seemed to read potently on television screens everywhere because viewers took to Twitter to discuss.

More: Dwayne Johnson's Oscar Loss Is a Win for the Rest of Us

Seriously, guys, are you OK?

More: Give Auli'i Cravalho an Excedrin & an Oscar Because She Crushed Her Performance

Who knows whether all is well between Gosling and Timberlake, but it made for some damn fine Oscars television.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.