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Make no assumption about sexuality. If
a student or co-worker 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?" Labels are often too scary and sometimes not accurate. Let
students label themselves.
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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 students or co-workers to break
their silence.
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Support, normalize and validate feelings
about sexuality. Let students or colleagues know that you are there for them. If you
cannot be supportive, refer them to someone who can be. Then work on your own biases by
reading, learning, and talking to people comfortable with this issue. Remember, the
problem is homophobia not homosexuality.
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Do not advise other to come out to
parents, family and friends as they need to come out at their own safe pace. Studies
show that as many as 26% of gay youth are forced to leave their home after telling their
Parents. IT IS THEIR DECISION and they have to live with the consequences.
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Guarantee confidentiality with students
and colleagues. Students and colleagues need to know that their privacy will be
respected or they will not be honest. If you cannot maintain confidentiality for legal or
other reasons, let this be known in advance (especially with students).
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Challenge homophobia. As a role model
for your students and co-workers, respond to homophobia iminediately and sincerely.
encourage in-service trainings for staff and students on homophobia.
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Combat heterosexism on your campus. Include
gay and lesbian role models whenever possible.
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Learn about community organizations and
resources. Farmiliarize yourself with campus and community organizations and resources
and call them before you refer to make sure they are ongoing.
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Encourage your administration to adopt and
enforce non -discrimination policies for students and employees which include sexual
orientation.
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Provide role models. Gay and straight
students and colleagues benefit from having openly gay people on campus. Straight students
and staff are given an alternative to the inaccurate stereotypes they have received and
gay students and co-workers are provided with the opportunity to see healthy and
successful gay professionals. |
