India
#LoveIsLove: How not to be a homophobic person
Now that the honorable Supreme Court has decriminalized gay sex, it's time for all of us to throw homophobia out of our lives. As historic as this judgment is, it means nothing if the LGBT community is constantly judged and inclusiveness doesn't happen on ground level. Wondering how not to be homophobic? It's quite simple. And we have made it simpler for you.
No, you will not see gay sex on roads
To all those who joke about homophobia, and think "ab toh nanga naach hoga", no that's not the case. Even before the SC judgement, how many people did you see having sex in public places? Assuming you will now see homosexuals having sex on streets, is homophobia. Stop with that already. There is no need to feel threatened or be scared. Just accept love!
Don't be scared or uncomfortable when gay/lesbian speaks to you
Dear heterosexuals, if a gay or lesbian is speaking to you, being genuinely nice, don't assume they are flirting or want to take you to their bedrooms. Do you assume the same when a heterosexual person speaks to you? No, right! Apply the same rule to homosexuals. Also, there are high chances they aren't interested in you because of your sexual orientation. Remember that.
A guy wearing pink doesn't make him gay
Leave individuals, people have even found the gender of colors: Blue is masculine, pink is feminine. And this is wrong on so many levels. So every time you see a man wearing a pink shirt, it's best to not question his sexuality. It might just be his favorite color. Also, colors have absolutely no relation with sexual orientation. How about you leave them alone?
Finding who's the man/woman in relationship shouldn't be your agenda
If you are curious to know who is the man or woman in a homosexual relationship, stop right there. For one this is a reflection of a patriarchal mindset, where a man is supposed to pay bills, earn money, and woman to wash dishes in the kitchen. Second, if details about what happens inside the bedroom of consenting adults, interests you, you are problematic.
Yes, they are sure about their sexuality, maybe you aren't
Gays have been asked million times if they are sure about their sexual orientation. This only shows heterosexuals can't decipher concepts that aren't binaries. By making the person doubt it, you are making it difficult for them to come out of the closet. What is needed is benevolence, not suspicions. If someone is confiding in you, just listen, don't judge!
Love is love is love is love!
Like comedian Hannah Gadsby said it's important to bring all perspectives on the table, and start a conversation. The Supreme Court today took a step, but there are miles to go. Till then let's remember Lin-Manuel Miranda's words, "Love is love is love is love".
