What is homophobia?

• Looking at a gay male/lesbian and automatically thinking of their sexuality, rather than seeing him/her as a whole, complex person.
• Failing to be supportive when your gay/lesbian friend is sad about a quarrel or breakup.
• Changing your seat in a meeting because a gay male or lesbian sat in the chair next to you..
• Thinking you can "spot one."
• Using the term "gay" or "lesbian" as accusatory.
• Not asking about a man/woman's male/female lover, although you regularly ask, "How is your husband or boyfriend?" when you run into a heterosexual friend.
• Kissing an old friend, but being afraid to shake hands with a gay/lesbian.
• Thinking that if a gay male/lesbian touches you he/she is making sexual advances.
• Stereotyping gay males/lesbians as promiscuous, "recruiters", separatists, or radicals. Using those terms accusingly.
• Feeling repulsed by public displays of affection between gay men or lesbians, but accepting the same affectionate displays between heterosexuals as o.k.
• Wondering which one is the "man/woman" in a gay couple.
• Feeling that gay people are too outspoken about gay rights.
• Assuming that everyone you meet is a heterosexual.
• Feeling that a gay male/lesbian is just a man/woman who couldn't find a woman/man.
• Avoiding mentioning to friends that you are involved with a gay rights organization because you are afraid that they will think you are gay.
• Not confronting a heterosexist remark for fear of being identified with gay men/lesbians.

Adapted from: Lesbians: A Consciousness Raising Kit, by The Boston NOW Lesbian Task Force

THINGS YOU CAN DO (TO ADDRESS HOMOPHOBIA)

Don't Assume Everyone is Heterosexual
Kinsey viewed the possibilities of sexual orientation as a continuum between exclusively homosexual and exclusively heterosexual. Kinsey found that most of us fall somewhere in the middle. If we accept that we all respond to stimuli in our own individual ways, it is easier to understand that what may be erotic for one may not be erotic for another. Research indicates that at least 10% of the population is lesbian or gay and even more are bi-sexual.

Avoid Anti-Gay Jokes and Conversation
Such talk serves only to perpetuate discrimination. It also makes it more difficult for people to come to terms with their true orientation.

Create An Atmosphere of Acceptance
Encourage open discussion of issues concerning alternate lifestyles. Invite the Department of Health Education or the Lesbian/Gay Alliance to speak to your group concerning lifestyles and orientations.

Correct Homophobic Remarks and Statements
The use of words like "fag" and "queer" should be no more tolerated that the use of words like "nigger" and "kike". The expression of anti-gay/lesbian sentiment should not go unchallenged. Support acceptance, denounce homophobia, sexism, racism, and all forms of bigotry.

Provide Role Models
Make it clear that there is nothing wrong with having lesbian, gay or bi-sexual friends. Openly participate in gay/lesbian programs and invite others to join in.

Acquaint Yourself With the L.G.B.T.Q Community
Become aware of issues relating to lesbian and gay rights, problems faced when "coming out of the closet," and the difficulties of "being out" on campus. Also be familiar with at least some of the positive aspects of being lesbian, or gay, there are thousands!

Integrate Lesbian/Gay Culture Into Current Programming
Include movies with a lesbian or gay theme on "movie nights." Make it clear that same-sex couples are welcome at all functions. Ask local lesbian/gay organizations to speak to your group.

Hang Up Posters Exhibiting a Pro-gay/Lesbian Sentiment
These are available from the Lesbian/Gay Alliance.

Have An Educational Program For Your Group
Call local resources for speakers.