GLBTQ & Homophobia

GLBTQ stands for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, two-spirited, questioning and queer. It replaces outdated terms like homosexuality and is more inclusive of different peoples’ experiences and lives. These terms are used to identify the diverse experiences of people with sexual orientations other than straight.

To be gay means to be attracted to and/or have romantic feelings for someone of the same sex as you. Usually this term applies to men, but lesbian women have begun using this term to identify their sexual orientation.

Lesbian is the term used to describe women who are attracted to other women. This attraction could be romantic, physical/sexual, emotional and/or spiritual.

Bisexual refers to people who are attracted to both genders.

To be transgender is to be at odds with the gender you were assigned based on your biological sex. Basically, for a transgender person, the gender they were born with does not match how they feel inside. There are different ways for a transgender person to cope with, including cross dressing, living as the opposite sex, hormone replacements and/or gender reassignment surgery.

Two-Spirited refers to First Nations people who believe they carry two spirits: one of a man and one of a woman. Historically, two-spirited people have been revered and looked upon as a third gender.

To be questioning means a person is unsure and/or questioning their sexual orientation/identity and/or gender. People who are questioning are curious and are still in the process of discovering their feelings concerning their sexual orientation.

Queer can be used to describe anyone who is not “straight” or heterosexual. Having started as an insult, it has now been reclaimed by many GLBTQ individuals.

Coming out is when a GLBTQ person tells someone else about their sexuality. Coming out is a gradual process where the first step is “coming out” to yourself. This means accepting yourself for who you are and recognizing that being GLBTQ is not wrong.

Homophobia

  • Homophobia is the irrational dislike, intolerance, and fear of GLBTQ people.
  • Similar to homophobia, heterosexism is a belief that heterosexuality is the best and only way to be.
  • Myths, stereotypes and prejudice about GLBTQ people exist because of homophobia and heterosexism.
  • Sometimes homophobic feelings result in physical violence, threats and/or insults against GLBTQ people.
  • Tragically, homophobia can result in “hate crimes.” A hate crime is when a person targets a victim based on their sex, race and other unique qualities.
  • Homophobia can also result in discrimination (not being hired for a job, a landlord not renting you an apartment, etc).

Facts

  • GLBTQ students hear anti-gay slurs and average of 26 times a day (PFLAG Canada).
  • In 2009, 30% of suicides involved an individual who identified as GLBTQ (PFLAG Canada).

Laws

  • In 2005, same-sex couples in every Canadian jurisdiction were granted the right to marry.

What you can do…

… If someone “comes out” to you:

  • Do not rush the process of understanding and accepting the person who comes out to you; allow the person to talk about their feelings.
  • Seek information, ask questions, read, attend support groups, and talk with the person who came out to you.
  • Don’t criticize the person for being different; being GLBTQ isn’t abnormal nor does it define the person.
  • Don’t tell the person it is a phase.
  • Know that the person has probably spent countless hours preparing to share this information with you.
  • Know that the person has not changed. He or she is simply telling you more about who he/she is. Reassure the person with love and support.

…If you think/know that you are GLBTQ:

  • It is quite natural to be confused about your sexuality when growing up, so take your time to figure it out.
  • Don’t feel lonely. Even though you might not be able to get support from friends or family, there are always support groups that can offer support.
  • Most of all, learn to like yourself for who you truly are; if people cannot appreciate you for your true self, they are usually not worth the trouble.

(Source: PFLAG Canada: Looking for Help)

…To stop homophobia

  • Be aware of your own prejudices.
  • Stand up for GLBTQ people. When a classmate is teasing someone about their sexual orientation, stand up for the person being teased.
  • When someone says “that’s so gay”, stop him or her. Recognize that words can hurt and the damage can last a lifetime.
  • Be supportive. When friends come out to you, don’t make fun of them. Treat them with respect. They are trusting you with personal information. Don’t forget what it means to be a friend.
  • Value differences. Everyone is different – realize that our differences are what make each of us so unique and our world so interesting.

Links

PFLAG Canada
Alterheros
Egale
Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa – Rainbow Youth Advisory and GLBTTQ Drop in

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