No one has the right to discriminate against or bully another person, or to hurt them emotionally or physically. There are several things you can do to help stop homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia:

• Don’t ever use negative or offensive language to describe LGBTQ people.
• Be careful of how even casual language — such as saying “that’s so gay”— can hurt others.
• Don’t believe stereotypes about LGBTQ people or make assumptions about them.
• Be a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ community, regardless of your own sexual orientation and identity. This is called being an ally.
• Let the LGBTQ people in your life know that you’re a friend and ally.
• Educate yourself on LGBTQ issues.
• Respect LGBTQ people’s decisions about when and where to come out.
• Remember that being LGBTQ is just one part of a person’s complex identity and life.
• Show as much interest in your LGBTQ friends’ or family members’ partners as you would show in a straight person’s partner.
• If you feel safe doing so, speak up when other people are being homophobic or biphobic, such as making offensive jokes, using negative language, or bullying or harassing someone because of their sexual orientation or identity.

When addressing homophobia in others:

• Decide if it’s safe to address the issue. Some things to consider: Will you be confronting a stranger in public? Or a friend or family member in private? Do you want to speak up now or save it for later, when you’re alone with the person? Would it be safest for you leave it alone and walk away?
• Ask questions and stay calm. Often, people don’t know that the language they’re using is insensitive. Avoid insulting them and tell them why you find their words offensive.