Challenging homophobia remains an issue that many practitioners find difficult for all sorts of reasons. Legislative confusion - what does Section 28 really mean to me? Professional and personal support and commitment to challenging homophobia - will my colleagues support me? Is there a commitment in the team and senior management? What will it say about me if I do or indeed if I don't challenge homophobia? What support can I get? Do I have the skills/confidence and strategies to challenge homophobia? In this issue of WWM, we aim to say unequivocally, yes homophobia must be challenged at both a practice and policy level; provide an overview of some research and practice issues; provide practical examples of approaches to challenge homophobia and highlight some resources that will help you in your role. The Section 28 debate established one clear point of agreement - homophobic bullying is not acceptable and those working with young people must ensure that homophobia, like racism and sexism, is eradicated from the classroom. The new Sex and Relationships Education (SRE) Guidance for schools (if not already out, it will be imminently) makes it clear that homophobic bullying is not acceptable. But we need to be clear that it is not just within SRE that we need to address homophobia, it is a whole setting issue. Teachers, youthworkers and all other professionals will need to 'join up' and ensure consistent efforts are made. Policies need to address issues such as language that will be used, positive images of lesbian and gay youth, equality of access to activities - in short, everything we do must meet the emotional, sexual health and mental health needs of all young people. Ask yourself - what is in it for gay men? And remember, even if nobody identifies as gay or bisexual openly, it is statistically likely that within any group of young people there will be a range of sexualities. Of course, homophobia is often thought to be an issue that only affects young gay men and lesbians, and whilst it undoubtedly does, it also affects other young men as well. In their bid to be a real man, indicators of success are often measured by their difference from women and gay men. Young men who are perceived as weak, effeminate or non-sporty often suffer at the hands of homophobic bullies. So in our bid to broaden perceptions of masculinity, homophobia remains a central barrier. Cultural changes in attitudes towards all men and a celebration of diverse masculinities and sexualities must be the goal, and we, as people interested in Working with Men, are central players. I hope you find this issue useful - examples of good practice are still limited and if you are doing any work that others could benefit from hearing about, please let us know. Simon Blake
Sex Education Forum Guest Editor |
