Social media to combat homophobia in schools

SOCIAL media is at the centre of a new government-backed campaign to stamp out homophobia in Victoria’s schools.

The Stand Out! campaign will be launched today by government group the Safe Schools Coalition, will use online resources to share stories of how students have dealt with homophobia.

Coordinator of Safe Schools Coalition Victoria Roz Ward said young people can play an important role as positive role models.

“There are young people across Victoria who are making a real difference by challenging homophobia in their schools.

“This resource brings together some of those stories and advice so other students can do the same,” Ms Ward said.

Online videos and social media, as well as information booklets, are some of the resources to be given to high schools across the state.

The campaign follows research from La Trobe University that shows 75 per cent of same-sex attracted young people have experienced some form of homophobic abuse.

Verbal abuse has been encountered by 61 per cent of those bullied, while 18 per cent have experienced physical homophobic abuse.

Around 80 per cent of these homophobic incidents take place in schools, making it the least safe place for these young people to be.

Education Minister Martin Dixon said the Safe Schools Coalition would help schools explore the impact of homophobia on young people.

“It’s an important step in ensuring school communities have the resources and confidence to challenge homophobia and respect diversity,” Mr Dixon said.

Some of the online resources and further information on the Stand Out! campaign can be found on the Safe School Coalition website.