1. What Causes Homophobia
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There are many different causes of homophobia. One is negative messages some people get about being gay from family, society and religion. Another is their beliefs about the causes of sexual orientation. In fact, a recent poll found that more people than ever believe that sexual orientation is born, not learned, and that this belief makes someone less likely to have anti-gay feelings.
2. Common Myths & Stereotypes About Gay People
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There are a lot of myths and stereotypes about gay people. Knowing what they are, and why they aren't accurate is a great way to fight ignorance!
3. How Homophobia Contributes to Gay Teen Homelessness
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Did you know that up to 40% of homeless youth are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender?
GLBT teen homelessness is often caused by homophobia. Many teens have positive, supportive coming out experiences, and families who provide unconditional love. However, in far too many cases, teens who come out are explicitly told they are no longer welcome at home. For others, living at home become so unbearable that leaving may seem like the safest option.
4. Matthew Shepard, a College Student Who Died at the Hands of Homophobes
Gina Van Hoof
Matthew Shepard was a college student at the University of Wyoming. October 6, 1998 Matthew was attacked by two men he met at a bar. After severely beating him, they left Matthew tied to a fence in the town of in Laramie, where the assault occurred.
Matthew died at a hospital in Fort Collins, Colorado, on October 12, 1998.
The two men who attacked him were convicted of the crime and received life sentences. Both are currently in jail.
5. Lawrence King, a 15-Year-Old Victim of Homophobia
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Lawrence King was a 15-year-old 8th grader from California, who was shot and killed by another student. This is being called an anti-gay hate crime.
The accused killer, Brandon McInerney, was a 14-year-old classmate. Fellow students say he was upset that Lawrence was openly gay and didn't conform to gender expectations.
6. How You Can Fight Homophobia
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Homophobia exists, but, there are concrete things teens can do to fight it!
- The Day of Silence is an annual event designed to bring attention to anti-gay bullying, harassment and discrimination in schools. Participating teachers and students spend a day without speaking to highlight the fact that many people in the GLBT community are forced to remain silent about who they are.
- Starting a Gay / Straight Alliance is a great way to educate others and fight anti-GLBT sentiments.
- A lot of people still use the phrase "That's so gay" to indicate they think something is stupid or uncool. Knowing what you can say when you hear it is a good way to get people to stop.
