What is homophobia?
Homophobia is the fear, dislike, or hatred of same-sex relationships and/or those within them.

What is heterosexism?
Heterosexism is the assumption, both active and passive, that all people are heterosexual.  Assuming a girl has, or would have, a boyfriend, is heterosexist.  Asking a stranger about his wife is also using heterosexist language.
 

1. Make no assumption about sexuality.  If someone doesn’t use a gender specific pronoun when discussing a relationship, don’t assume one for them.  Use gender non-specific language.  Also, do not assume a crush on someone of the same sex indicates sexual orientation.  Labels are personal and sometimes overwhelming.  Let people label themselves.


2. Have something related to the GLBT community in your office, in a prominent position.  A book, a sticker, a poster, a flyer, a Safe Zone decal.  Any of these items help make a GLBT person feel comfortable and safe.


3. Support and normalize others’ feelings about themselves.  Let them know that you are supportive, and that being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered is normal.  Homophobia is the problem- not one’s sexuality.


4. Guarantee confidentiality!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


5. Challenge homophobia.  Respond to homophobic reactions sincerely and immediately.  Combat heterosexist language actively, in your self and others.


6. Combat heterosexism in the classroom and in your environments.  Include GLBT role models in your classrooms and other discussions.