Ways to Reduce Homophobia
The Safe Zone program is in a period of transition. Started by students in 2004, the program is moving to a new administrative home. We hope to expand the program and ensure its longevity. Check back for more information.
- Make no assumption about sexuality.If a
student/peer has not used a pronoun when discussing a relationship,
don't assume one. Use neutral language such as "Are you seeing
anyone" instead of "Do you have a boyfriend". Additionally,
do not assume that a female who confides a "crush" on another
girl is a lesbian. Labels are often too scary and sometimes not accurate.
Let students label themselves.
- Have something gay-related visible in your office--a
sticker, a poster, a flyer, a brochure, a book, a button. This will
identify you as a safe person to talk to and will hopefully allow a
gay, lesbian, bisexual or questioning youth to break his/her silence.
SAFE ZONE campaign stickers and resources can provide this visibility.
- Support, normalize and validate a persons feelings about
his/her sexuality. Let them know that you are there for
them. If you cannot be supportive, please refer to someone who can
be. Then work on your own biases by reading, learning and talking
to people comfortable with this issue. And always remember, the problem
is homophobia not homosexuality.
- Do not advise to come out to parents, family and friends
as they need to come out at their own safe pace. Studies
show as many as 26% of gay youth are forced to leave their home after
they tell their parents. IT IS THEIR DECISION and they have to live
with the consequences. Help them figure out what makes sense for
them.
- Guarantee confidentiality with students. Students
need to know their privacy will be respected or they will not be honest
about this important issue. If you cannot maintain confidentiality
for legal reasons, let students know this in advance.
- Challenge homophobia. As a role model for your
students, respond to homophobia immediately and sincerely. Encourage
in-service trainings for staff and students on homophobia and its impact
on gay and lesbian youth.
- Combat heterosexism in your classroom. Include
visibly gay and lesbian role models in your classroom.
- Learn about and refer to community organizations. Familiarize
yourself with resources and call them before you refer to make sure
they are ongoing. Also, become aware of gay-themed bibliographies and
refer to gay-positive books.
- Encourage school administrators to adopt and enforce anti-discrimination
policies for their schools or school systems which include sexual
orientation. The language should be included in all written
materials next to race, sex, religion, etc.
- Provide role models. Gay and straight students
benefit from having openly gay teachers, coaches and administration.
Straight students are given an alternative to the inaccurate stereotypes
they have received and gay students are provided with the opportunity
to see healthy gay adults. You, as teachers, can help by making gay
and lesbian students feel more welcome.
Suggestions compiled by Youth
Pride, Inc.
