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On this episode of if you're not pissed you're not paying attention we're talking lgbt+!
I recently learned that there is a law (its only illegal in a small handful of states) where someone can be practically excused from commiting a hate crime against lgbt+.
I recently learned that there is a law (its only illegal in a small handful of states) where someone can be practically excused from commiting a hate crime against lgbt+.
This legally is known as "panic defense" just for starters. So, that being said, if let's say a straight, cis-gendered person were to feel threatened by someone part of the lgbt+ community their actions can be excused INCLUDING MURDER.
I pride myself in being able to consider myself and doing what I can as an ally. It makes me sick knowing someone's violent reaction towards someone trying to live their truth can essentially be murdered or brutally attacked for simply being open about themselves.
As of 2018, the statistics regarding hate crime induced reaction against lgbt+ sky rocketed from roughly 17% in 2017 TO A WHOLE 34%.
Its incredibly scary to me as someone who has close friends part of the lgbt+ community to know that no matter what I do, can be deemed essentially worthless if these people are met with violence and brutality of extreme extent.
If you're not pissed, you're not paying attention. If you hate someone strictly because of their orientation, sexual, or gender identity, you do not belong here. Its not a matter of "being aware of your surroundings" bc you can be in the safest place in the world
And still have that one person who doesn't "agree" with your existence so much that they'd rather take your life than simply stay quiet or leave the situation.
This is only a FRACTION of what lgbt+ people have to deal with. The rates of homelessness and sexual abuse is a whole other story I'll cover at another time. However, please do your part as an ally or member, to ensure a safe space because you never know who might need it.
Thank you if you took the time to read this thread. I have included a couple articles regarding this topic if you wish to look into it further.
Don't be afraid to start the conversation bc you can end up being the one protecting those you love.
Don't be afraid to start the conversation bc you can end up being the one protecting those you love.
