Negative Backlash and Personal Security
It is an unfortunate reality that those who speak out on GLBT issues sometime become the target
of hate-mail, backlash, and threats. While this section is not meant to scare you out of action, it
is meant to prepare you for the very real possibility that by speaking out and fighting back, you
can become the target of more hate. Again, know that Fight OUT Loud will be there to assist
and support you through this. Most importantly, if you ever feel you are in imminent
danger or are physically approached, IMMEDIATELY contact the police.
Just a few of the things you might encounter (again, not to scare you, but to prepare you) are:
- Anti-gay postings and comments online
- Hate mail (both email and written)
- Verbal Attacks on your character, credibility, appearance, etc.
- Backlash from conservative and religious groups
A major source of backlash can come from media coverage, which is why it is VERY important to
decide if you want to make yourself available to news outlets. IF you put your face and name out
into the public domain, some will use it against you. If you think you can not handle the backlash,
but still want to get your story out, there are a few ways to minimize your exposure:
- Don't do On-Camera Interviews
- Ask for your name to be withheld from Media Reports
- Speak through a third party or by written statement
It is also equally important to take control of how the media portrays your story, to the extent that
it is possible. One inflammatory news story or headline can set off the flags of conservative and
religious groups, so stay involved and make your voice heard.
Fight OUT Loud will work with you with any issues you have regarding backlash and hate. You
will not be facing these things alone. Remember, even though there may be negative things
directed towards you, you will also get immense amounts of support from both the GLBT
community and society as a whole.
Move on to the last step: Following Through.
It is an unfortunate reality that those who speak out on GLBT issues sometime become the target
of hate-mail, backlash, and threats. While this section is not meant to scare you out of action, it
is meant to prepare you for the very real possibility that by speaking out and fighting back, you
can become the target of more hate. Again, know that Fight OUT Loud will be there to assist
and support you through this. Most importantly, if you ever feel you are in imminent
danger or are physically approached, IMMEDIATELY contact the police.
Just a few of the things you might encounter (again, not to scare you, but to prepare you) are:
- Anti-gay postings and comments online
- Hate mail (both email and written)
- Verbal Attacks on your character, credibility, appearance, etc.
- Backlash from conservative and religious groups
A major source of backlash can come from media coverage, which is why it is VERY important to
decide if you want to make yourself available to news outlets. IF you put your face and name out
into the public domain, some will use it against you. If you think you can not handle the backlash,
but still want to get your story out, there are a few ways to minimize your exposure:
- Don't do On-Camera Interviews
- Ask for your name to be withheld from Media Reports
- Speak through a third party or by written statement
It is also equally important to take control of how the media portrays your story, to the extent that
it is possible. One inflammatory news story or headline can set off the flags of conservative and
religious groups, so stay involved and make your voice heard.
Fight OUT Loud will work with you with any issues you have regarding backlash and hate. You
will not be facing these things alone. Remember, even though there may be negative things
directed towards you, you will also get immense amounts of support from both the GLBT
community and society as a whole.
Move on to the last step: Following Through.
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