4 strategies to prevent homophobia and transphobia

• How to prevent homophobia and transphobia.
• In 2020, some countries reported a record number crimes against the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Learn 4 strategies to prevent homophobia and transphobia

How can we prevent homophobia and transphobia? A Gallup survey found that approximately 7% of US adults identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

However, 25% of those surveyed viewed this community as ‘immoral’.

This has heightened concerns about the physical and emotional well-being of individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community.

In 2020 and 2021, there was a significant uptick in crimes against homosexual and transgender individuals due to homophobia and transphobia. Discover how to prevent homophobia and transphobia in four steps.

What are homophobia and transphobia?

Homophobia and transphobia refer to negative attitudes or behaviors toward people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT).

These attitudes can manifest in various ways, including discrimination, harassment, physical or verbal violence, rejection, social exclusion or marginalization.

This poses a significant risk to the physical and mental health of those who identify as LGBTQIA+. They are more vulnerable to assaults.

Furthermore, transphobia and homophobia also impact the families, friends and the closest circle of the community, creating a stressful environment that could raise anxiety levels for millions worldwide.

How to prevent homophobia and transphobia? Educate yourself

Internalized homophobia or transphobia is common in various groups of people. Both heterosexual individuals and those within the LGBTQIA+ community may harbor prejudices or preconceived notions about sexuality.

Same-sex attraction has long been considered ‘abnormal’ or ‘wrong’ by some members of society.

A way to break these preconceived notions about sexuality is to educate yourself by reading articles that discuss these topics.

Understanding the origins and challenges in the LGBTQIA+ community is vital to broadening one’s perspective and to avoid making offensive remarks.

Create inclusive environments

Learning how to prevent homophobia and transphobia is everyone’s responsibility and it can start at school and at home.

Schools have advocated for inclusive environments where sex education isn’t just heterosexual-centric but also caters to the needs of LGBTQIA+ teenagers and young adults.

Creating safe spaces both inside and outside the classroom, at home, at work and in public spaces will ensure young people can express their ideas and concerns without feeling judged or attacked.

Homophobia and transphobia can be internalized, but they can also perpetuate stereotypes related to gender roles.

How to prevent homophobia: Dive into reading

When someone is different from the norm, they might feel confusion or rejection.

However, it’s crucial to realize that homophobia and transphobia can be overcome through an understanding of the LGBTQIA+ community.

One way to gain insight is by reading scientific research, articles, interviews blogs or listening to podcasts.

This will open up a new perspective to understanding the LGBTQIA+ community, its challenges, its history and the appropriate ways to respect gender identity and sexual orientation.

To prevent transphobia, avoid discriminatory language

Reading can also be a pivotal factor in understanding how to address an LGBTQIA+ individual without assuming their gender or sexuality.

Hence, many now share information like their preferred pronouns. Respecting and using them correctly will reduce the risk of using discriminatory language and it will make individuals feel respected and accepted.

Undoubtedly, preventing transphobia and homophobia is an everyday task. For instance, in a survey published by Statista, 57% of adults believe that LGBTQIA+ Pride parades are an effective way to raise awareness.

Still, some think these events don’t impact society, indicating there’s still a long way to go in accepting all members of the LGBTQIA+ community.