Article: http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/nov/24/using-gay-mean-crap-bullying-gap-people
Words.
They can tear people down, and build people up.
They can mean absolutely nothing, and they can mean absolutely everything.
In this society, people frivolously use words like “faggot” and “gay” without considering the repercussions of their careless language.
We were given a mind to use caution, discretion, and prudence. We were given a mind and heart to care for people, not to fester hatred.
Bullying is a problem, especially for LGBT people. The definition of “gay” has evolved. The fact that “gay” and “crap” are used synonymously is not right.
Let me put this into perspective, “23% of gay or bisexual young people have tried to take their own lives and 56% have self-harmed.”
Verbal bullying has the power to tear people down. We need to make a change.
Stonewall is a gay charity with a campaign who is fighting anti-gay language. I will encourage you to learn more about this charity, and to support them.
The only way to change is through exposure to an alternate way of doing things.
Will you stand up for those who are cast off to the wayside? Will you be a voice to the unheard?