What is Homophobia?

The UK, in recent years, has made some big strides in accepting the existence of homosexuals in society. With every TV soap-opera running gay characters and the odd gay storyline, homosexuality has really started to come out into the mainstream. But it is mostly "mainstream at a distance".

It's quite different to suddenly come to terms with a close friend you've known all your life is gay; that your son, daughter, brother, sister, Mum or Dad is gay.

Until lesbians and gay men are accepted on an equal basis, there will be too much unhappiness and too many wasted lives.

What is Homophobia?

Homophobia is the irrational fear of homosexuality. With it come hatred, disgust, prejudice and oppression. Homophobia and the fear of homophobia exist today on streets, in families, in the work place and in social circles in every city, town and village.

 

 

Homophobia and Heterosexism

But it also comes in another form, which has been called Heterosexism. Heterosexism is institutionised homphobia: the assumption that male-female sexuality is the only natural or moral mode of sexual behaviour.

It is heterosexism, for example, which leads parents of gay children to believe they have failed as parents; and which leads the gay children themselves to understand themselves as a disappointment to their parents.

Heterosexism also harms heterosexuals by applying strict definitions of 'approporate' sex-role behavior and sexual relationships.

Effects of Homophobia and Heterosexism

Homophobia and heterosexism are the reasons way lesbians and gay men so often live their lives in secret.

Imagine the pain of having a partner in life whom you feel you have to hide from your parents, colleagues and social groups, for year after year. It so often leads to the break-up of loving relationships, depression, and not in-frequently suicide.

What can I do?

The "End Homophobia" wristbands will help to break down the effects of homophobia and heterosexism, by making a visible statement that you represent fairness, tollerance and equality. You are saying to the world that it's cool to have these values. You are saying to lesbian and gay men that they are among friends, that they will not be judged. And when this message becomes the only common currency, homophobia will have gone for good.