Think before you speak

Think before you speak

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) teens experience homophobic remarks and harassment throughout the school day, creating an atmosphere where they feel disrespected, unwanted and unsafe. Homophobic remarks such as “that’s so gay” are the most commonly heard; these slurs are often unintentional and a common part of teens’ vernacular. Most do not recognize the consequences, but the casual use of this language often carries over into more overt harassment.

This campaign aims to raise awareness about the prevalence and consequences of anti-LGBT bias and behavior in America’s schools. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce and prevent the use of homophobic language in an effort to create a more positive environment for LGBT teens. The campaign also aims to reach adults, including school personnel and parents; their support of this message is crucial to the success of efforts to change behavior.

Seriously, say something original;

• That's so yesterday
• That's so supercalifragilisticexpialidocious
• That's so raunchy!
• That's so phat
• That's so fetch
• That's so awk-weird
• That's so stupendiliferous
• That's so uber stupid
• That's so rainbowlicious
• That's so discombobulated
• That's so pathetically pretentious
• That's so juxtaposed
• That's so full of sunshine goodness
• That's so whiggity-whack

The rate at which students use and hear negative language about lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) people is huge. Over half of all students report hearing homophobic remarks often at school.

The common use of anti-LGBT language is directly related to an even bigger problem – the bullying and harassment of LGBT students.

9 out of 10 LGBT students report being harassed at school in the last year. Over one-third of LGBT students have been physically assaulted at school because of their sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.

Such frequent harassment results in LGBT students being more likely than others to:

• Feel unsafe
• Miss school
• Receive lower grades
• Not attend college

Creating a safe environment for all students - LGBT and straight alike - begins with one simple act: thinking before you speak.

A lot of anti-LGBT language is said carelessly, and isn’t intended as negative or hurtful. Understand what you’re saying, and think about the potential consequences of the words you choose.

And, just for your further education...

gay - adjective, -er, -est, noun, adverb, -adjective

1. having or showing a merry, lively mood : gay spirits; gay music.
2. bright ot showy: gay colours; gay ornaments
3. given to or abounding in social or other pleasures: a gay social season
4. licentious; dissipated; wanton: the baron is a gay old rogue with an eye for the ladies
   

http://www.thinkb4youspeak.com/