Opposed to or discriminating against gay people or homosexuality.
From anti- (against) + gay (homosexual), a modern term that emerged with the gay rights movement of the late 20th century.
The term antigay reflects an important shift—where 'homosexual' was purely descriptive, 'antigay' labels prejudice itself, allowing society to distinguish between sexual orientation and discrimination.
This word centers opposition to LGBTQ+ identities, which have been systematically pathologized and criminalized. The prefix 'anti-' reflects historical framing of sexual orientation as a problem requiring opposition, rather than a natural spectrum of human identity.
Use precise language about specific policies or viewpoints (e.g., 'opposition to marriage equality') rather than categorical labels that reduce LGBTQ+ people to a concept to be opposed. Avoid 'antigay' as descriptive shorthand.
["opposes marriage equality","opposes LGBTQ+ rights","excludes LGBTQ+ people"]
LGBTQ+ scholars and activists have reframed sexual orientation and gender identity as inherent aspects of human diversity worthy of celebration, not opposition. This reclamation challenges the pathologizing history embedded in language like 'antigay'.
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