Guides for Commanders, Colleagues and Families

Help & Advice - Guides for Commanders, Colleagues and Families

There are and always have been homo- and bisexual personnel living, sleeping and showering with others of the same gender without anyone knowing of their orientation. Disclosure of that orientation will not result in a sudden shift from discretion to blatant flaunting. Why would it?

Read more: Gays and Bisexuals in the Military: Key Points for Colleagues and Commanders

Help & Advice - Guides for Commanders, Colleagues and Families

Homophobia

The fear of homosexuality - in ourselves and/or others. Those who hold beliefs that homosexuality is wrong are not necessarily homophobic. The term 'homophobia' was introduced into literature by George Weinberg in 1972 in his publication Society and the Healthy Homosexual. He defined homophobia as 'the dread of being in close quarters with homosexuals'.

Read more: What is homophobia and what does heterosexism mean?

Help & Advice - Guides for Commanders, Colleagues and Families

"Commanding officers have a key role to play in creating a culture in which gay and lesbian personnel feel confident that they work without being harassed or bullied because of their orientation."
- Cdr Tim Kingsbury, RN Equality and Diversity (Feb 2005).

Read more: Frequently Asked Questions for Commanders and Managers

Help & Advice - Guides for Commanders, Colleagues and Families

This selection of frequently asked questions is aimed towards straight service personnel; the answers to common questions may prove useful to all engaged in discussion of the issues surrounding military life.

Read more: FAQs for Straight Service Personnel