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