Re: dyslogistic use of the G-word 
 
Perhaps, then, we should consider the indirect impact. 
 
Ok, so for the sake of argument let us assume that as a group of strong, proud, self-assured individuals with no underlying insecurities about our sexualities (yeah right!) then we should just try harder to "get over" pejorative use of the g-word. Indeed, maybe in some cases this could be beneficial -- excessive and persistent complaining might even risk alienating us further as a sector of society... perhaps. 
 
But leaving that aside, let's consider for a moment: what if the danger in "tolerating" negative use of the term gay (cf. the dreaded racial epithet of the "n-word") is not merely in how it affects those of us who aren't straight, but in how it affects those who are homophobic and inclined to intolerance and bigotry? Sure, most casual users of the "g-word" probably aren't being explicitly or even consciously homophobic, but in condoning this kind of behaviour we allow those who actually *are* bigoted to hide in a sea of indifference. Indeed, it perpetuates the idea that acting disparagingly towards LGBTQEtc individuals is somehow still casually socially acceptable. 
 
If everyone can say "eww, that's gay" with impunity, then those people who are genuinely bigoted and homophobic can easily say "eww, you're gay" without compunction, as the distance from what we might consider tolerable behaviour is minor. Anyone's racist intolerance expressed as "eww, you're a n****r" would stand out a mile from socially acceptable norms. Surely we should strive for such bigots to be equally visible and indeed vilified for homophobic behaviour, and so maybe it's our responsibility to keep discouraging the unthinking, unintentional separatism as well as the active and deliberate hatred? 
 
Just a thought. 
 
Jxx

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