The need to be accepted is a strong one. People will weigh options and make choices in order to achieve this.

The ability to make choices depends on many factors such as access, resources, autonomy and self-esteem.

If you are not a member of the dominant cultural group the choices available may be more limited.

Like the city we live in our community is made up of people from a multitude of ethno-cultural groups. Who may not be as comfortable with homosexuality as others.

Living in two cultures with conflicting values can present challenges and increase risk taking behaviours in order to be accepted.

Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender teens who have low self esteem are less likely to practice safe sex than are those who feel good about themselves.

It is not hard to assume that men who hide their same sex relationships question their feelings, thus lowering their self esteem and possibly acting on their desire over rational and having unprotected sex.

Music has an impact on societal values. When an artist who promotes homophobia is given the ability to promote hatred by performing or selling their music, there is an implied message that homophobia is acceptable. By continuing to support and encourage these heinous performers, people contribute to lowering the self-esteem of LGBTQ individuals. When this music comes from a member of your cultural group this impact is greater.

Speak Up!
Watch for these artists.
Support our friends
Denounce those promoting hate.
Contact Festivals, Record Stores, Venues and Local Media to express your feelings.

Our Friends
Tim'm T. West
Deadlee
JB Rap
Cazwell
Juba Kalamba
Tori Fixx
Deep Dickollective
God-Des and She
Melange Lavonne
Mz Fontaine
QBoy
Samantha Ronson
Soce, the elemental wizard
Yo Majesty

Not our Friends
Beenie Man
Buju Banton
Eminem
Elephant Man
Sizzla
Capleton

Organizations fighting Homophobia
Amnesty International
GLAAD
ÉGALE
Fondation Émergence
Montréal Youth Coalition Against Homophobia
Coalition Multimundo

Other Links
stopmurdermusic.ch
Out Hip Hop Downloads