Romanovsky & Phillips When Heterosexism Strikes
(This was written after reading an article by Joseph Neisen in the Fall 1990 issue of OUT/LOOK, titled "Heterosexism or Homophobia? The Power of the Language We Use." He writes, "Heterosexism... identifies the true origin of the prejudice... and concentrates on the real problem - discrimination against gay men and lesbians... use of heterosexism leads the way from victimization to survival.") You're applying for a job So you're filling out a form And for all intents and purposes You fit into the norm Until it says to list your next of kin But there's no box to fit you in Cause the one you love The one who shares your life Is not your husband or your wife Oh no! Heterosexism strikes again So use the power of the pen To draw a box of your own and then Label it however you like: Lover, spouse or partner-in-life That's one way you can fight When heterosexism strikes Michael served his country well When he went to fight the war And each letter from his lover He locked safely in a drawer Until a witch hunt of McCarthy style Demanded he be put on trial They said his love, his sexuality Threatened national security Oh no! Heterosexism knocks you down But pick yourself up off the ground And challenge them to a second round Get a lawyer, file a report Drag their asses back into court That's one way you can fight When heterosexism strikes Don't let them break you, or make you miserable Don't let them take you, and make you invisible We're here, we're queer, that's a natural fact When heterosexism strikes, strike back! Sharon and her lover Sue Danced and dined by candlelight They were one of many couples getting intimate that night Until the waiter asked them both to leave And they looked at him in disbelief As he ended their romantic night of bliss Because they'd had the nerve to kiss Oh no! Heterosexism strikes again But you've got rights you must defend So get together a group of your gayest friends Go back to the scene of the crime Hug and kiss and have a good time That's one way you can fight When heterosexism strikes Heterosexism on the loose But you don't have to take abuse No! Now's the time we can put to use The righteous anger we feel The love we're taught to conceal We've got to stand up and fight When heterosexism strikes