Language plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and attitudes. In LGBT campaigns, the words we choose can either build understanding and acceptance or perpetuate stigma and discrimination. It’s essential to use language that respects and affirms the identities and experiences of LGBT individuals.
This article highlights common terms and phrases to avoid, along with preferred alternatives that promote inclusivity and equality.
Homosexual vs. Gay
- Avoid: “homosexual” (n. or adj.), “gay” (n.) (e.g., “He is a gay.”)
- Preferred: “gay” (adj.); “gay man” or “lesbian” (n.); “gay person/people”
Using “gay” as an adjective is more respectful and inclusive. “Homosexual” can stigmatize individuals by reducing their lives to purely sexual terms. The term “lesbian” is clearer when referring specifically to women.
Homosexuality vs. Being Gay
- Avoid: “homosexuality,” “lesbianism”
- Preferred: “being gay”
Talking about “homosexuality” can reduce a person’s life to purely sexual terms. Use “being gay” instead. The term “lesbianism” is considered pejorative.
Sexual Preference vs. Sexual Orientation
- Avoid: “sexual preference,” “gay lifestyle,” “homosexual lifestyle,” “same-sex attractions,” “sexual identity”
- Preferred: “sexual orientation” or “orientation”
The term “sexual preference” implies being gay is a choice, which can be changed or “cured.” Similarly, “gay lifestyle” stigmatizes gay people by focusing only on their sexual behavior. Use “sexual orientation” to respect their identity.
Admitted Homosexual vs. Openly Gay
- Avoid: “admitted homosexual,” “avowed homosexual,” “admitted he was gay”
- Preferred: “openly lesbian,” “openly gay,” “openly bisexual,” or simply “out”
The term “admitted” suggests prior deception or shame. Instead, use “openly” to describe someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
Gay Agenda vs. Accurate Descriptions
- Avoid: “gay agenda,” “homosexual agenda”
- Preferred: Accurate descriptions of issues (e.g., “inclusion in existing non-discrimination and hate crimes laws,” “ending the ban on transgender service members”)
Phrases like “gay agenda” are used by anti-gay activists to create fear. LGBT people seek the same rights and protections as others, so use accurate descriptions of their goals.
Transgendered vs. Transgender
- Avoid: “transgendered,” “a transgender,” “transgenders,” “transvestite,” “tranny”
- Preferred: “transgender” (adj.), “transgender people,” “a transgender person”
“Transgender” is an adjective, not a noun. Avoid anti transgender terms like “transgendered” or “transvestite,” which are outdated and offensive. Use “transgender people” or “a transgender person” instead.
Sex Change vs. Transition
- Avoid: “sex change,” “sex-change operation,” “pre-operative,” “post-operative,” “pre-op,” “post-op”
- Preferred: transition
The term “transition” is more inclusive and does not focus on surgeries. Terms like “pre-op” or “post-op” unnecessarily emphasize a person’s anatomy.
Special Rights vs. Equal Protection
- Avoid: “special rights,” “civil rights,” “gay rights”
- Preferred: “fairness and equality,” “equal protection”
Terms like “special rights” are used to incite opposition to LGBT protections. Use “equal protection” or “fairness and equality” to emphasize the universal right to be treated fairly.
Hate vs. Intolerance
- Avoid: “hate,” “haters,” “hatred,” “bigots,” “bigotry,” “prejudice”
- Preferred: “intolerance,” “rejection,” “exclusion,” “unfairness,” “hurtfulness”
Avoid highly charged terms like “hate” and “bigotry,” which can alienate people. Use more measured terms to create empathy and highlight the impact of negative attitudes on LGBT people.
Religious Extremists vs. Anti-Gay Activists
- Avoid: “religious extremists/extremism,” “anti-gay Christians”
- Preferred: “anti-gay activists,” “far-right activists”
Conclusion
Using the right language in LGBT campaigns is about showing respect and understanding for individuals’ identities and experiences. By avoiding outdated and harmful terms, and opting for inclusive and affirming language, we can help create a more accepting and equitable society.
The words we use matter, and by choosing them carefully, we can support the dignity and rights of LGBT people. Let’s commit to using language that promotes respect, equality, and understanding for all.
