Throughout the year, Spartan Youth Radio will use this space to feature an important cause, an issue we have talked about in a show or a concern that has been brought to our attention.

GAY RIGHTS ORGANIZATION MAKES APPEAL TO STRAIGHT MEN

Heterosexuals for Same Sex Equality has been a unique voice in the fight for LGBT rights since 2007.  Their latest project however, might be the most non-conventional approach to date. 
 

Their latest video “Are You a Man?” sidesteps the LGBT community and speaks directly to heterosexual males.  Members of the HSSE have been out in front of post-secondary and high school students with their Equality Check. Better. Now. anti-bullying presentation and noticed a not-so-surprising trend.  The vast majority of homophobia is birthed from the mouths and minds of young straight men.  “If we win them over, this fight is all but won.” says co-director of "Are You a Man?" Katharine Jovey. The HSSE noticed a startling gap in the myriad of campaigns and initiatives that were aimed at homophobia and bullying.  Enter: “Are You a Man?”

“Are You a Man?” features 26 decorated, accomplished, outspoken and gorgeous women who also happen to be vocal supporters of the HSSE.  They fit the description of the HSSE’s “Straight Not Narrow” mantra/slogan.  They are women of all shapes, ethnicities and walks of life. They are comedians, writers, producers, teachers, theatre techs, therapists and more. Whilst on set, Second City actress, Ashley Comeau was quoted as saying, “I’m so honoured to be in this video.  It’s so great for gay rights and by happy accident it’s good for women’s body image too.” Writer and director Derek Forgie adds, “Boys are used to ads with cool and attractive women. Our product just happens to be acceptance and non-violence.”
 

The message is simple; being a hater doesn’t make you straighter.
 

 The “It Gets Better” campaign has certainly proven to be a monumental comfort to LGBT youth, but it raised the question: how do we make it better now?  “Are You a Man?” is one of the answers.  “Bringing comfort to the bullied is important but we can’t forget to change the mindset of the bully,” says Forgie, who is also the founder of the HSSE.          

 “Are You a Man?” can be seen at: www.straightnotnarrow.ca