What is Homophobia?

Homophobia is the irrational fear, intolerance and sometimes hatred of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LBGT) people. Accordingly, when homophobia is the motive for verbal threats or physical violence against LBGT people it is called a homophobic Hate crime. 

What kinds of homophobic violence and abuse are there? 

Verbal assaults - Probably one of the most common forms of street-based homophobia. A lot of LBGT people would be familiar with the experience of a carload of people driving past calling out insults like ‘filthy dyke’ or ‘dirty faggot’. 

Ongoing harassment or intimidation - This may include for example a fellow student, work mate or neighbour targeting their victim, on more than two occasions, with name calling, inappropriate comments, threats of violence or actual violence, vandalism, graffiti and so on. 

Physical violence - This can range in intensity from a ‘shoulder charge’ to a full on physical attack. 

Sexual harassment or assault - Sexual violence is almost always about the perpetrator trying to show their power or dominance. LBGT people can experience this type of violence. 

The police have powers do deal with all these forms of homophobia and if reported, they are obliged to deal with each case in a respectful and sensitive manner.

Avoiding Violence 

While no one can guarantee street safety, there are a number of strategies you can use to significantly reduce the risk.

If you are walking in the street (especially at night) you can:

• Stay alert. Awareness is your best defence.
• Project confidence.
• Walk with others. Stick close to a friend or a group of ‘safe’ looking people.
• Keep enough money for a taxi or bus.
• Walk in well lit areas.
• If you are on a quiet street walk down the middle of the road (mind the cars though!).
• Walk in the opposite direction to the traffic flow to avoid a car pulling up behind you.
• Where possible, avoid doorways, bushes etc where an attacker might hide.
• Remember that alcohol can make people aggressive and unpredictable.
• Have your house or car keys ready before you get to your door so that you aren’t fumbling around.
• Know the trouble spots, e.g. outside certain pubs, and either avoid them or be extra careful when near them.
• Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right get away. You may not be right about the situation but it is better to be safe.

Verbal insults and Physical Threats

Verbal abuse is the most common form of street-based homophobia. It is often a prelude to physical assault. Although it can be upsetting and embarrassing to be called names because of your sexuality, perceived sexuality or gender - DO NOT RETALIATE. It could make the situation worse. 

What to do if a person or group confronts you?

• Try to remain calm.
• Project confidence - but don’t act cocky.
• Try not to escalate the situation. Don’t insult them (even if it seems so tempting!).
• Try to escape. RUN AWAY. Head for somewhere with people.

What if it becomes physical?

• If you can – RUN! Get away as soon as you can.
• Scream, shout for help, make as much noise as you can to attract attention.
• Remember if you are knocked to the ground cover your head and try to keep moving. It is more difficult to kick a moving target.
• Never let an attacker force you into a car, back street or building. Being taken from the scene significantly increases the chances of you being seriously assaulted. 

What do I do afterwards?

• Seek medical attention! You can go to the Accident and Emergency Department of the nearest hospital, to a medical centre or to your own GP. Even if you don’t think you need treatment, a check up by your GP is a good idea. It can also be helpful should you need a medical report at a later stage.
• Report it! It is important to think about reporting the incident to the police. If such incidents aren’t reported to the police they will have no way of tracking homophobic abuse and violence. The police have a dedicated team to deal with Homophobic crime and they understand the fears that some people may have about reporting an incident. All incidents are dealt with respectfully, sensitively and confidentially. You can contact the Open Out Co-ordinator who is not a police officer but a civilian who acts as link between you and the police. The Open Out Co-ordinator can help you to report homophobic crime or simply offer information. 
   
  Open Out Reporting, Information & Advice Line: 01223 823552
  In operation on weekdays from 7.30am - 6.00pm and you may leave a voice message at all other times. 
   
  Email Open Out: Marie.McKearney@cambs.pnn.police.uk
  You can usually expect a response to your email within one working day.
   
  Alternatively, you can report homophobic crime online (click on the banner below) or in person at your local police station. The Welfare Officer is also available to provide information and can act as your representative.  If these crimes are not reported, criminals who target the LGBT community will remain free to commit further crimes. They will perceive the LBGT community to be an easy target because you suffer in silence. HATE CRIME HURTS. 
  
• Seek support! It is vital you seek support to help you deal with the trauma of experiencing a homophobic attack. This could just be talking to friends or family and sometimes this can be the best type of support. However, organisations such as Victim Support the University Counselling Service have lots of experience of helping people get back on track after trauma. The Welfare Officer is also available for confidential help and support.