Safe Zones Addresses Homophobic Speech

The Safe Zones group, in coordination with SDSU Director of Diversity Aaron Bruce, have created a quick and cost-effective method to assist in changing homophobic speech on campus.

"That's so gay," or "you're so gay," have become phrases synonymous with indicating that something or someone is stupid or negative. Although many students don't use racial or religious slurs, the idea of using homophobic slurs is still prevalent among middle school and high school students.

Homophobic speech

According to a 2007 National School Climate survey (links to PDF) conducted by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, 86.2 percent of LGBT high school and middle school students reported being verbally harassed, 44.1 percent reported being physically harassed and 22.1 percent reported being physically assaulted at school during 2007 year because of their sexual orientation.

"Our campus community is being highly proactive about this topic," said Bruce. "A hostile school climate can have serious negative effects on academic achievement."

Pass the card

The "I Thought I Heard You Say That's So Gay" cards can be politely passed to anyone who chooses to use the homophobic slur.

"The cards provide a valuable teachable moment, providing students with an instant list of more appropriate, alternative vocabulary words," Bruce said. "This is another way the raise awareness by educating our community that the slur is considered an insult against the gay community and language matters."

Where to find the cards

The cards are available at a variety of areas around campus including the Office of the President, Women's Studies, Counseling & Psychological Services, the Pride Resource Center, the Cross-Cultural Center and the Executive Offices of Associated Students.