The theme of the International Day Against Homophobia 2013 campaign is Fight the Homophobia Web Virus. The campaign image shows a virus seen under microscope. This homophobia Web virus, of course, has no face or colour. Its illustration is an element of communication
Anonymous Abuse
Homophobia is becoming increasingly present on the Web and in social media. The anonymity of the Internet facilitates the spread of abusive comments and cyberhomophobia that could have serious consequences.
What is cyberhomophobia?
Negative attitudes
Cyberhomophobia is the manifestation of homophobia on the Internet and in social media. It is the circulation of negative attitudes towards homosexuality and gender identity. It often presents sexual minorities as inferior or abnormal and can be expressed in the form of jokes, teasing, hateful or hostile remarks, denigration and stereotypes toward homosexual or transsexual persons.
Hurtful words
Certain words and expressions can hurt people, even without intending to. It would be best to ban these from your conversations: “fag”, “so gay”, “lesbo” , “butch”, “dyke”, “homo”, etc.
Cyberbullying and Harassment
It’s not a game!
Bullying and harassment are nothing new. Unfortunately, they now happen on the Web. If social media such as Facebook, YouTube and Twitter are amazing tools, they can also be ruthless. Using them repeatedly against someone can constitute real bullying and victimization.