In today’s society, it’s more important than ever to be aware of the language we use and the impact it can have on others. Words have power, and they can be used to hurt or to heal.

The phrase “first one to move is gay” is a homophobic slur that has been used for decades to shame and ridicule LGBTQ people. It’s a harmful and hurtful phrase that has no place in our society.
If you hear someone using this phrase, it’s important to speak up and let them know that it’s not okay. You can do this by:
- Telling them that the phrase is homophobic and hurtful.
- Explaining why the phrase is offensive and why it’s important to use respectful language.
- Asking them to stop using the phrase.
You should also be aware of other ways that people might try to say “first one to move is gay” without actually saying it. For example, they might say something like:
- “He’s so flamboyant, he must be gay.”
- “She’s such a tomboy, she must be a lesbian.”
- “They’re always holding hands, they must be a couple.”
These are all examples of homophobic stereotypes that can be just as harmful as the phrase “first one to move is gay.” If you hear someone using these types of stereotypes, it’s important to speak up and let them know that they’re not okay.
Homophobic language can have a devastating impact on LGBTQ people. It can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and depression. It can also make it difficult for LGBTQ people to come out and live their lives authentically.
According to a study by the National LGBTQ Task Force, LGBTQ youth who hear homophobic language are more likely to experience:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Substance abuse
- Homelessness
- Runaway behavior
Homophobic language can also create a hostile and unwelcoming environment for LGBTQ people. This can make it difficult for them to feel safe and comfortable in their own communities.
If you want to be an ally to LGBTQ people, it’s important to be aware of the language you use and the impact it can have on others. You should also be prepared to speak up and challenge homophobic language when you hear it.
Here are some tips for being an ally to LGBTQ people:
- Use respectful language. Always use the correct pronouns and names for LGBTQ people. Avoid using slurs or stereotypes.
- Be supportive. Let LGBTQ people know that you support them and that you’re there for them.
- Speak up against homophobia. If you hear someone using homophobic language, don’t be afraid to speak up and let them know that it’s not okay.
- Educate yourself. Learn about the experiences of LGBTQ people and the challenges they face. This will help you to be a more informed and effective ally.
Homophobic language is a serious problem that has a devastating impact on LGBTQ people. It’s important to be aware of the language you use and the impact it can have on others. If you hear someone using homophobic language, don’t be afraid to speak up and let them know that it’s not okay.
By being an ally to LGBTQ people, you can help to create a more inclusive and welcoming world for everyone.
| Outcome | Percentage of LGBTQ Youth Who Experienced the Outcome |
|---|---|
| Depression | 41% |
| Anxiety | 38% |
| Suicidal thoughts | 40% |
| Substance abuse | 28% |
| Homelessness | 22% |
| Runaway behavior | 20% |
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Direct confrontation: This involves directly confronting the person who is using homophobic language. This can be done by telling them that their language is hurtful and that they need to stop. | |
| Indirect confrontation: This involves confronting the person indirectly by talking to someone else about their language. This can be done by talking to a teacher, a parent, or a friend. | |
| Education: This involves educating the person about the impact of homophobic language. This can be done by providing them with information about the experiences of LGBTQ people and the challenges they face. | |
| Support: This involves providing support to LGBTQ people who have been targeted by homophobic language. This can be done by letting them know that you support them and that you’re there for them. |
| Tip | Trick |
|---|---|
| Use inclusive language. Always use the correct pronouns and names for LGBTQ people. Avoid using slurs or stereotypes. | |
| Be supportive. Let LGBTQ people know that you support them and that you’re there for them. | |
| Speak up against homophobia. If you hear someone using homophobic language, don’t be afraid to speak up and let them know that it’s not okay. | |
| Educate yourself. Learn about the experiences of LGBTQ people and the challenges they face. This will help you to be a more informed and effective ally. |
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| The National LGBTQ Task Force | A national organization that advocates for the rights of LGBTQ people. |
| The Human Rights Campaign | A national organization that works to protect the civil rights of LGBTQ people. |
| PFLAG | A national organization that provides support and resources to LGBTQ people and their families. |
| The Trevor Project | A national organization that provides crisis counseling and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth. |
