90%

Ninety percent. Well, by some estimates. Others say anywhere between ninety-two, ninety-five, and on up to ninety-six. What is it that I am talking about?



Why former Italian leader and tycoon Silvio Berlusconi? My question to you is why not?

So, yes, 90% or so of the population is heterosexual. Congratulations! You can make babies (which is pretty cool, unless its an accident). Other than that, there isn't much difference. You are part of a hetero-normative culture, and you are free to get a bad loan on your new home, and subsequently have a foreclosure on it.

Do I have a problem with the fact that straight people exist, muddling up this already sin-filled world with their lifestyle choice? No. I actually like straight people quite a bit.

However, there comes a time in every relationship where it is time for your friends to stand up for you. That would also be known as 'support'. This is pretty much a basic premise of having friendly relationships to begin with, and while the parties, sports, and celebratory moments are awesome, one of the truest indicators of a healthy friendship are the crises. How a friend reacts during these defines them.

To the point:

You 90% out there, you overwhelming majority of humanity- you . Gays and Lesbians rely daily on your kindness and support to have healthy, safe, and stable lives. But how much of this is a 'mind-your-own-business' type of apathy? While this isn't a bad thing at all, discrimination is still very prevalent, and it is up to you, overwhelmingly, to make the difference for the 10%. I know this- as I am perceived as a straight man by many... that when I stand up against the guy or girl who uses 'gay' pejoratively, or says 'faggot' or any number of other offensive and bigoted terms... I know that this makes a difference, and it isnt the same as those who know I like men. Calling people out on bias, sexuality-based and beyond, is something that everybody should participate in. We in this country have freedom of speech- but this does NOT mean we have to respect what words have been spoken. That freedom gives you the power to stand against injustice, however small it may seem.

My roommate AP, a straight, dashingly handsome man (and single, ladies), said when I came out to him (not in a planned manner) that he was disappointed. When I asked why, he essentially said he thought it was nice to see a straight man who wasn't afraid to stick up for gay people. That is by far one of the most respectful, insightful, and awesome responses I have heard when coming out to someone.

And it says a lot about our current state of affairs. It isn't the norm to stick up for those around you. In the face of blatant discrimination, it certainly shouldn't be the norm to ignore it.

The fact remains (and always will, for something like homosexuality (gays don't necessarily make more gays) that the structure will always be predominantly heterosexual. So don't feel threatened. It isn't contagious.

I'm just asking for y'all to stick up for the ten percent that relies on you. It makes a big difference.