Though homophobia actively oppresses gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgendered people, it also hurts heterosexuals.

• Homophobia can inhibit the ability of heterosexuals to form close, intimate relationships with members of their own sex for fear of being perceived as gay, lesbian or bisexual.

• Homophobia can lock people into rigid gender-based roles that inhibit creativity and self-expression.

• Homophobia is often used to stigmatize heterosexuals who visibly support gay men, lesbians, and bisexuals or those who do not conform to rigid sex roles.

• Homophobia results in the invisibility of gay, lesbian, and bisexual lives in school-based sex education discussions, keeping vital information from students.

• Homophobia prevents heterosexuals from accepting the benefits and contributions offered by the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities; theoretical insights, social visions and options, and contributions to the arts and culture, religion, family life, and other sectors of society.

Source: Adapted from the University of Oregon’s Ally Pamphlet

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