How to Talk With a Straight Person
Release timeļ¼2023-11-18 04:07:25 oRead0
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Be yourself.
- Don't worry too much about whether they are bigoted or not. If they turn out to be a bigot, then they weren't worth your friendship anyway. It's okay to mention your same-gender partner, or do stereo typically "gay" or "lesbian" things. Let them appreciate you for who you are.
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They can learn about the LGBTQIA+ community on their own. While it may not be a problem to teach them a new word or gently correct an assumption here and there, too much education can be a drain on your energy. Feel free to point them to a website, or suggest they look it up, if you're getting tired.
- If they say hurtful things, to the point that it's really impacting you, cut contact. Your emotional health matters. You aren't obligated to rid them of their toxic ideas.
- You may be able to chat about love as easily as you would with an LGBTQIA+ friend. If you're attracted to the same gender of people, you can even talk about cute people together!
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Straight people are people just like anyone else. Bonding with them is not very different than bonding with a gay, bisexual, or asexual person.
- Get out of your normal routine and make your life more enjoyable. For example, if you have been eager to play the drums for ten years, go and join a class.
- Take a different route to work. You can take a five-minute longer journey to work and go through the scenic route.
- Or go to a different cafe, try different foods, or join the gym.
- Even if they're laughably ignorant, they are still worthwhile people. It's important not to condescend to them as they learn, because it may strain your friendship. Keep them in your good graces unless they start doing clearly harmful or mean things.
- Sometimes, straight people are very uneducated about the LGBTQIA+ community. With this in mind, they may harbor ridiculous ideas. Do your best to politely educate them and help them catch up with reality.