Why does this matter?

As members of the LGBTQ+ community, hearing terms meant to belittle us can cause a lack of self-confidence and a fear to come out. Even if the term isn't being used directly at someone of the LGBTQ+ community, using gay to mean horrible or gross can make someone question if how they feel is wrong or disgusting. It creates a stigma around gay people. Also educating children at a young age that LGBTQ+ slurs are not okay, that those slurs can lead to depression and suicide. By calling someone a Fag, Dyke, Tranny, or even saying "that's so gay" you are being a bully. Most people think these terms are cool and they should be used. We feel that the LGBTQ+ community just wants simple respect from people in the world, just how we show respect to them.

We're tired of hearing LGTBQ+ terms being used as insults.

Your words have so much more of an effect on us than you might believe.