In any sports setting, safety and inclusion should be the cornerstone of fan experiences. Yet, homophobia still persists in subtle and overt ways. As allies, it’s crucial to address these behaviors effectively and ensure all fans feel welcome. Here’s how we can de-escalate homophobic situations while fostering a supportive environment.
This guide is meant for stadium staff and security professionals, but any sports fan or sports participant can use these tips to de-escalate homophobic commentary in athletic spaces.
Step 1: Identify the Behavior
Homophobia manifests in varying degrees, from casual remarks to overtly aggressive actions. Understanding the difference is key to addressing them appropriately.
Casual Remarks: Terms like "That's so gay," or insults such as "pansy" or "girly boy."
Overt Behaviors: Explicit slurs, physical intimidation, or chants targeting LGBTQ+ individuals.
Remember: waiting to address the issue only escalates tensions and reduces the feeling of safety.
Step 2: Speak Up and Refocus
When homophobia arises, call it out immediately to shift focus and de-escalate:
Call Out Behavior:
“Is there a problem here?”
“Care to elaborate on that comment?”
"What do you mean by that?"
"I don't get it, can you explain it to me?"
Refocus on Enjoyment:
“Anything else you’d like to air out so you can get back to enjoying the game?”
"Well I guess if you can't back it up, it must not be that important."
"Do you want to keep being hateful or do you want to get back to what we're here to do?"
Step 3: Ensure Accountability
If softer approaches fail, take decisive action:
Penalize Abuse:
"Ease up on the language."
"Can you choose a different word."
"We do not tolerate hate speech here."
If necessary, involve security or management to remove individuals who persist in hateful behavior.
Step 4: Reassure and Welcome
For those affected, ensuring their safety and sense of belonging is paramount:
Check in personally:
“Are you okay? How are you feeling?”
"Hey that was a lot, just wanted to check in with you."
Let them know they are valued and safe.
Reinforce inclusion:
“This team welcomes every fan. You are welcome here.”
"If there's anything else I can do, please let me know, I want to do it."
Highlight the value of diverse fans and reiterate that hate of any kind is not tolerated.
Go-To Statements of Inclusion
Language matters. Use terms that are neutral and inclusive:
Instead of: "He/she" → Use: "They/them."
Replace: "Ladies and gentlemen" with: "Folks/guests."
Refer to: "Partner/spouse" instead of "boyfriend/girlfriend."
Practical Tips for Inclusive Communication
Know where all restrooms are and provide directions to men’s, women’s, and gender-neutral options.
Avoid assumptions about which restroom someone will use.
Use terms like "restroom" instead of “boy’s room/girl’s room.”
Explore how to disrupt homophobia in the group chat
Be sure to follow @YouCanPlayTeam for more tips and tricks
Comments