Did you know that it wasn’t until 1990 that homosexuality was declassified as a mental disorder by the World Health Organization? They did so on May 17th, hence the date of this observance.
The theme for 2022 is “Our Bodies, Our Lives, Our Rights”.
This remains painfully appropriate as more than 1/3 of countries still criminalize same-sex relationships. Even in countries that support same-sex marriage, 2SLGBTQ+ folks face discrimination, stigma, prejudice, and violence. The 2SLGBTQ+ community demands a world where there is freedom to live one’s sexuality and express one’s gender freely, while being safe from so called conversion “therapies” or forced sterilization of Trans and Intersex people.
Steps that we can each take to reduce homophobia:
-
Don’t make assumptions
Don't assume that all your co-workers and students are straight. Don't assume someone's gender or pronouns. 2SLGBTQ+ people don't look a particular way and someone's current or previous partner(s) doesn't solely define their sexuality. Someone close to you could be looking for support - not making assumptions will give them the space they need to be their authentic self and open up to you in their own time.
-
Know that language matters
Try using more inclusive language as much as possible. Avoid asking students about their “mom and dad”, and instead ask about their loved ones. Use gender neutral greetings. Listen to how people refer to their significant others. If a man talks to you about his husband, don’t reply with questions about his “partner”. Follow his lead.
-
Don’t tolerate homophobia
Let colleagues and students know that anti-2SLGBTQ+ jokes aren’t funny. Tell them that you find them offensive (and that they aren’t just offensive to the 2SLGBTQ+ community).
-
Learn about heterosexual privilege.
These are the everyday privileges straight people have in society. For example, the ability to display attraction or affection (e.g., holding hands) to the opposite gender in public without fear of judgment or even violence, or the ability to travel with your loved one to any country you desire – including ones where homosexuality is criminalized, without even realizing it. Another example is the ability to list your family on a single airport immigration card. Same gender people have to list on separate cards even if they live together and are common law.
-
Learn about issues that are important to the 2SLGBTQ+ community
-
The need for inclusive and comprehensive sex education in schools
-
The potential link between Roe v Wade and same-sex marriage protection
-
Washroom safety for Trans and non-binary folks
-
The impact of representation
-
Intersectionality and the impact this has on everything (healthcare, acceptance, advancement, income, education, safety etc).