Opposition to Homophobia and Heterosexism

Passed:

Add a new resolution as follows:
WHEREAS, homophobia¹  is the discrimination of people perceived to be non-heterosexual, regardless of the victim’s actual sexual orientation or sexual identity; and,
         ¹ Homophobia, A commonly used definition from the American Heritage Dictionary (1992): “Fear or contempt for lesbians and gay men.”   

WHEREAS, heterosexism²  is a self-justifying system of homophobia that
   1)  perpetuates stereotypical categories of what is essentially “masculine” and what is essentially “feminine,”
         2)  provides a privileged status for people who identify as culturally defined heterosexuals, and
           3)  discriminates against persons who, regardless of their sexual orientation or sexual identity, do not appear to fit within the particular category defined as appropriate for their gender; and,
                ²  Heterosexism, A commonly used definition from the American Heritage Dictionary (1992): “Discrimination or prejudice against lesbians or gay men by heterosexual people.”

WHEREAS, actions rooted in homophobia and heterosexism, including violence, threats, ridicule, humiliation, discrimination, isolation, and rejection, is damaging to persons of all sexual orientations and identities, 

WHEREAS, homophobia and heterosexism are manifestations of sexism in general in that they foster stereotypes based on arbitrary distinctions of gender categories,

WHEREAS, the United Methodist Church is committed to the eradication of sexism (#48, 2004 Book of Resolutions),

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the United Methodist Church strengthen its advocacy of the eradication of sexism by opposing all forms of violence or discrimination based on gender, gender identity, sexual practice or sexual orientation.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Board of Church and Society develop resources and materials aimed at educating members of the local churches about the reality, issues, and effects of homophobia¹  and heterosexism²  and the need for Christian witness against these facets of marginalization.

Reference:
Opposition to Homophobia and Heterosexism (80845-C2-R9999)