Homophobia and discrimination in the workplace

In college I wrote my senior thesis on homophobia in the workplace. I had to give a presentation to my classmates, most of whom had never considered the issue. The common sentiment was that homosexuality belonged behind bedroom doors and should not be discussed in the workplace.  It is the equivalent of a 'don't ask, don't tell' employment contract. Like many people, my classmates were oblivious to the many ways they indirectly, and directly, identify themselves as heterosexual to their co-workers every day. 

Whether you have a picture of your spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend or kids in your office or you chat with co-workers about a camping trip, movie or dinner last night with your family or beloved, you are identifying your sexual orientation indirectly, in countless ways, every day. 

When you are gay and do the same thing, it may make co-workers uncomfortable, you risk becoming water cooler fodder and/or you may be fired.