Accepting Diversity: The Term “Gay”

Wednesday, November 12th, 2008
by Brian R

Recently there was a problem on WA’s campus regarding homophobic and racial remarks. Now I don’t know what exactly was said, or who was responsible, and frankly I don’t care very much to find out. But I do know that comments pertaining to race or sexual orientation are serious and hurtful to a community. The school took the correct course of action in calling an assembly to address the issue, and then following up with a discussion in advisory. They should continue to pursue means of eliminating blatant derogatory and hurtful behavior around campus.

However, I would like to take a step back and look into the language of the situation, specifically the term “gay”. I also would like to provide my perspective on some of the instances that WA students, as well as students around the country, deal with every single day. What is said? Why is it said? And what is the intent?

The term “gay” is defined as being happily excited or merry. It is also used as a noun to describe a homosexual man. But the actual definition of a word doesn’t hold nearly as much worth as the connotation. All that really matters is that both the speaker and listener agree upon the meaning of what is being said. So if connotation is all that matters, what is the general understanding of the term “gay”?

I have to admit, I am guilty of using the term, and the majority of my friends also use it. However, I don’t consider myself homophobic at all. I’m in favor or gay marriage, and support equal rights for every sexual orientation. But I often use the term “gay” without a second thought. The word has somehow become part of my language, part of our language, serving as a very popular and widely used adjective. In the majority of situations that I have encountered, phrases like “that is so gay” or “stop being so gay” are not intended to be derogatory towards homosexual individuals. It’s not as if these things are said with the specific purpose of insulting homosexuals. Unfortunately, they have become phrases that are often used by teenagers to express their opinions about a certain person or situation.

But obviously, whether we realize it or not, the usage of the word “gay” is hurtful in any context, and with any intent. Calling something or someone “gay” may seem inconsequential to heterosexuals, and it may be socially acceptable in many situations, but it is certainly derogatory. I have red hair, and I would certainly be offended if people started using the term “ginger” in the same manner that the term “gay” is currently used. But the problem is deeply seeded in the language, and it will take an incredible amount of work and drive to change the status quo.

So what can we do? Assemblies and advisory discussions are a start, but not nearly enough. If you think about it, the term “gay” is used with such frequency because it is socially acceptable; not enough people vehemently appose it. I never say the n-word because it runs the risk of serious opposition and possible confrontation. I don’t say the f-word in front of my superiors because it runs a high risk of being reprimanded. But in today’s society, there is virtually no risk in calling someone or something “gay”. It’s derogatory, and hurtful, but for whatever reason it’s acceptable. In order to change that, the majority of people need to be wholeheartedly opposed to all things homophobic. That is the only way that these remarks will become socially unacceptable. Unfortunately, I’m not sure if that’s possible any time soon.

Photo Credit: Craig Axxie

Photo Credit: new-ars

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