Homophobia can be defined as discrimination towards homosexuals and homosexuality. It was coined by clinical psychologist George Weinberg in 1965, who stated in 2002 that ‘Homophobia is just that: a phobia. A morbid and irrational dread which prompts irrational behaviour flight or the desire to destroy the stimulus for the phobia and anything reminiscent of it’.
In light of the above, it can be seen that combating homophobia is extremely important in ensuring that LGBT people are able to feel safe and comfortable in the community in which they reside. This is often executed through events such as pride parades and political activism. One form of this is the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) first celebrated on May 17, 2005 in more than 40 countries.
Random but interesting fact … there is a Simpsons episode called Homer’s Phobia. Wow.