As we know from a 2010 public opinion poll, 52 percent of Americans believed that gay and lesbian relationships were acceptable, while 43 percent of Americans who participated believed that gay and lesbian relationships are morally wrong. (1) (2) (6) The Southern states of America are much less tolerant of homosexuality than areas where there is a strong and established gay scene, for example New York City and San Francisco.(3) Within the African-American and Latino cultures, homosexuality is seen as even more taboo and is generally not discussed leading to homophobia and discrimination. For this reason, we must do more to overcome homophobia, stigma and discrimination to improve the health of everyone, especially young black and Latino MSM. 

 Tackling homophobia can help overcome barriers to health care and encourages gay men to be tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. (2) Effectively tackling homophobia means addressing prejudicial attitudes and discrimination in all areas of society. Political leaders, police forces, health services, broadcasters and employers can all positively influence the way that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people are treated. (3)

 Schools have an important part to play in challenging homophobia. Homophobia is fueled by lack of awareness, and educating young people about LGBT issues is fundamental to overcoming widely accepted prejudice. (4) Furthermore, when schools respond strongly to homophobic bullying, LGBT students are more likely to feel able to be themselves, more likely to feel part of the school community and more likely to be happy. There are various ways in which schools can ensure that students of all sexualities feel included and valued. Teacher training and the integration of sexual orientation into the curriculum are important for building knowledge and understanding. Providing information and support for LGBT students, and taking assertive action against homophobic bullying, are also vital for creating an environment where all students are supported. (5)

 Community based organizations play an important role in addressing homophobia. They have the scope to provide support to LGBT people who might feel marginalized and isolated, especially in societies where homosexuality is illegal. Such groups can also influence the attitudes of the general public and can campaign for tolerance towards homosexuality. (3)

Many governments throughout the world uphold laws that ban homosexuality. Repealing these laws would reduce discrimination against LGBT people, encouraging societies to embrace the diversity of different sexualities. Eradicating homophobia is crucial for improving quality of life for LGBT people, promoting fundamental human rights, and also preventing the spread of HIV. (3)

To help tackle homophobia close to home, it requires members from all communities to get involved.  A few ways to participate are by hanging and distributing some of our awareness posters about this educational project throughout the community in which you live.  When others view these posters it will hopefully lead them to this website where they can read more information on this important issue and discover some of the things they can do to help stop discrimination and most importantly the spread of HIV.  There are many ways to get involved to support gay and lesbian people living in your community.   Visit our POSTERS page to download, print and distribute the awareness posters throughout your community.  Share the information and knowledge you have with others.  Start the discussion to reduce stigma and discrimination in your community!  In other words...BREAK THE SILENCE!

MSM and their family and friends can take steps to reduce the effects of homophobia, stigma and discrimination and protect their physical and mental health. One way to cope with the stress from stigma and discrimination is social support. Some studies show that gay men who have good social support—from family, friends, and the wider gay community—have:

• higher self-esteem,
• a more positive group identity, and
• more positive mental health.

Whether you are gay or straight, you can help reduce homophobia, stigma and discrimination in your community and decrease the negative health effects. Even small things can make a difference, such as supporting a family member, friend, co-worker. (2)


Homosexuality Knows No Borders - It Exists in Every Country

It is generally assumed that one out of ten people is gay or lesbian, which should basically be the case in all countries and all cultures.  Held on May 17 each year, the International Day Against Homophobia is the moment to remember that homosexuality is a universal fact and cannot be restricted by borders.  There are gay men and lesbians in all countries.  What actually differs from country to country is how these people are treated.  Not all of the worlds' citizens are able to enjoy the privilege of living in a democratic society.  In many countries, loving a member of the same sex and having sexual relations with that person are against the law and are not recognized as being a basic freedom.  This annual event, proposed by Fondation Émergence, is a growing demonstration of solidarity.  It is a privileged moment for inviting all and everyone to join forces to overcome prejudice against gay men and lesbians.  Visit International Day Against Homophobia's website to read more on things you can do to break the silence surrounding the issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. (7) 

If you see someone being discriminated against or bullied, stand up for them, say something, and stop the spread of hate!  People who harass LGBT people often get away with it because no one speaks up to stop the verbal abuse being said and this just perpetrates the abusive cycle to happen over and over.  Violence often happens against people who are most marginalized within a society, specifically someone an abuser feels like he/she can attack without repercussions.  If you witness this kind of verbal abuse, harassment, or physical violence you have the power to stop it by intervening, or calling someone in the community who can help.  Always report abuse and violence that happen in your community to put a stop to all forms of discrimination. 


Accept Diversity in the Community

There are very few LGBT centers within the black community that provide support and care.  You can open your community center, home, apartment or personal business to provide a meeting and/or social space for people to find comfort and support in their own community.