So I’ve been defining feminism [1] for our movement, recently focusing on how feminists are moving [2] toward their goal. Let’s take a look at part two of hooks’ definition [3] by talking about what “end” really means. A coworker recently told me, “I’m just tired of it. I want sexual violence to be over.” Similar to this feeling of utter exasperation at the staying power of sexual violence, I am totally beyond over homophobic and transphobic behaviors, policies, and practices that perpetuate sexual violence [4]. In honor of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) [5], I’m blogging about what it would be like to live in a world without these forms of oppression.

In this beautiful world, all people will have the opportunity to make informed, active decisions toward a healthy sexuality. We would do away with the gender norms [6] that subscribe to traditional expressions of gender which limit people of all genders and sexual orientations. In my new world, all people can openly celebrate [7] their love and their personal expression. Youth will walk down hallways in their schools hearing positive, affirming words [8] rather than gendered bullying [9]. For goodness sake, it will be safe to pee [10] wherever you feel so moved. It would be okay [11] to be LGBTQ.

Tolerating homophobia and transphobia in any space makes that place unsafe. Homophobic teasing [12] may even predict sexually violent behavior. On this International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia [5], I’m trying to see my world through a safer lens [13]. Take action today by blogging [14] about this issue and consider putting your creativity and vision to the test by submitting a video to the Safer Lens Challenge [13].

I am longing for the end of sexual violence and all forms of oppression. Until we get there, I’m hoping for the day that I wake up without the overwhelming weight of gendered violence on my chest. What are you longing for?