Read Online GLBTQ by Kelly Huegel - Free Book Online

Montgomery Blair High School to demonstrate against the school’s gay-straight alliance (GSA). A local open congregation launched a fundraiser in response, encouraging churchgoers to donate money for every minute the Kansas group protested the school. The church donated the money to a local gay rights organization.
    There may be times when it’s appropriate just to turn around and say, “I really didn’t appreciate that comment.” However, if you’re going to respond to homophobia, include something constructive. Tell the person why you don’t appreciate his comments or how the comments or actions make you feel, but keep your cool while you’re doing it. Homophobia is an issue that’s easy to get upset about. A comment you intended to be constructive could escalate into a fight. In the heat of the moment, it can be tough to think of something to say beyond four-letters words.
    Been There:
    â€œWhen I was in tenth grade, a teacher mentioned something about there being gay students at our school and the girl I was sitting next to asked, ‘There are gay people in this school?’ The guy sitting next to her, the girl sitting in front of her, and I all turned and said ‘yes’ at the same time. By my twelfth-grade year, no one would ask that question.”
—Alex, 19
    Following are some common homophobic remarks, along with possible responses. Some are humorous, some are not, but all are designed to make people think about what they said. In each case, you can customize responses based on whether someone is addressing your sexual orientation or gender identity.
    When someone tells a homophobic joke.
    Possible response: “When you tell jokes like that, you give the impression that it’s okay to make fun of GLBTQ people. Is that what you really believe?”
    â€œHe’s such a fag,” or “You look like a dyke.”
    Possible response: “How would you feel if I called you a ‘breeder’ or a ‘hetero’?” or “What’s with the hate?”
    â€œUgh, that’s so gay. Oh, you know, I don’t mean it that way. It’s just an expression.”
    Possible response: “It’s still hurtful to hear,” or “I understand what you’re saying, but if you don’t mean it that way, maybe another expression that doesn’t insult people would be more appropriate,” or even, “Maybe you don’t mean it that way, but that’s how a lot of people hear it. Are you okay with people thinking you’re homophobic?”
    â€œWhat do queer people do in bed?”
    Possible response: “Sleep. Sometimes we watch TV or read.”
    â€œYou don’t look gay.”
    Possible response: “That’s because I’m one of our secret agents. It’s such a relief to know the disguise is working,” or “What does gay look like to you?”
    To a girl: “You just haven’t met the right guy yet.”
    Possible response to another girl: “Maybe you just haven’t met the right girl yet.”
    â€œYou’re just going through a phase.”
    Possible response: “Is my entire life a phase?” or “I know I’m gay in the same way you know you’re straight.”
    â€œQueer people spread AIDS.”
    Possible response: “According to the National Institutes of Health, the highest transmission rates are among heterosexuals.”
    â€œWhy do gay people have to flaunt who they are?”
    Possible response: “Refusing to hide is not flaunting,” or “I’m just being me.”
    â€œPeople like you are disgusting.”
    Possible response: “Ignorance and hatred are disgusting.” Another option when you hear a homophobic remark or question is to name it. Say, “That comment is homophobic,” or even ask, “What is it about queer people that makes you so afraid?”
Try to Educate Others
    Although it can be