|
|
homophobia
1. Aversion to gay or homosexual people or their lifestyle or
culture.
2. Behavior or an act based on this aversion.
(The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 3rd
ed., 1992)
homophobia
Irrational fear of, aversion to, or discrimination against homosexuality
or homosexuals.
(Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 10th ed., 1993)
homophobia
n. 1. unreasoning fear of or antipathy toward homosexuals and
homosexuality. [1955-60; HOMO (SEXUAL) + -
PHOBIA] Derived words --ho'mo-phobe, n.; ho mo-pho'bic, adj.
(Random House/Webster's Online Dictionary, Version 1 for Windows,
1992.)
Ok so now you know the definitions of homophobia. Homophobia is odd because it is based on views that are easily debunked, and which rely on strangely distorted view of ordinary gay folks. There are some interesting studies on the roots of homophobia and the links between self-esteem and violence. Homophobia is so commonplace it often goes unnoticed. Homophobia like all other phobias is based on a fear. The fear of homosexuality though is usually exasperated by the opinion of others around a person. Most homophobic individuals do not know first hand of a gay person. They hear the stories of the fag trying to pick up a friend of theirs, the story of the quiet guy who lives near a friend, or the lesbian who lives down the road.
Homosexuals are people...plain and simple. The ONLY difference between a heterosexual and a homosexual is that of attraction. Homosexuals like heterosexuals want the same things in life: Acceptance of family/friends, a family, a long term relationship, etc etc... We all are striving for the same thing out of life: HAPPINESS!
There are many groups out there for gays/lesbians/bisexuals/heterosexual to add strength in the fight against homophobia (Many of them are listed on my links page). Homophobia is the last act of hatred towards a certain class/group of people that is still silently acceptable in this world. Slowly through awareness, openness, and acceptance though ..The fight against homophobia is ending. Until that day though..Gays/Lesbians/Bisexuals are forced to live in a society that still sees them as a second class citizen.
