Heterosexism

We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when adults are afraid of the light. -- Plato

Heterosexism is the oppression of gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered persons by believing in the superiority of heterosexuality. This belief creates a situation where everyone, not just the homosexual, is harmed. The basic fact is that heterosexism hurts everyone.

The heterosexual who supports heterosexist ideas, is hurt in several ways. First, many people eliminate someone from their life because they feel that their homosexuality, bisexuality, or transgenderism will reflect upon them. Others just dislike people because of their sexual orientation, and deny themselves the opportunity to know many people around them.

Even though everyone is affected by heterosexism, the hardest hit groups are gays, lesibans, bisexuals and transgendered persons. Discrimination because of their sexual identity can destroy the morality and emotions of someone who is not heterosexual. Gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgendered persons, often face discrimination in employment, as well as everyday living.

When someone is discriminated against, their self esteem is often hurt or in extreme cases, even destroyed. For people growing up in a heterosexist environment, it can lead to a great deal of self-hatred and in some cases suicide.

Heterosexism is a serious problem that plagues us all. But there are things that can be done. Acceptance is only the beginning. It must be followed with education and familiarization. Homosexuality, bisexuality and transgenderism is all around, but so is heterosexism. Take the time to educate yourself and others; a world with less ignorance is a world worth living in. Remember, if you can, love someone who is gay, bisexual or transgendered because a comforting word could save a life.

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I wrote that over 13 years ago while a freshman at CSU. If I remember right, it was for a brochure I was putting together on Heterosexism and the Queer community. I came across it today, and wanted to share.