INFORMATION FOR

How can I respond to homophobic attitudes?

If you disagree with a negative statement someone makes about people who are lesbian, gay, or bisexual, the assertive thing to do is to say so. Again, silence communicates agreement.  Remember what your goal is in responding:  not to start an argument or foster hostility, but to attempt to increase understanding.  Disagreement can be civil and respectful. Share your views without accusing or criticizing. You are simply presenting another way of thinking about the topic.  You may need to be prepared for the kind of responses you might get for stating your beliefs. It can be difficult to speak out in support of people who are LGBT.  You might be afraid that others will question your own sexual orientation, your morals, or your values, or that you will be ostracized in some way.  It is easy to forget there might be positive effects of your speaking out as well.