The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #66734

Peter Barbosa, PhD, EyeBite Productions Inc., PO Box 14133, San Francisco, CA 94114-0133, 415-551-1723, peter@eyebite.com

A video (or sample of the video, depending on time restrictions) entitled De Colores, addressing homophobia in the Latino community will be the basis of the discussion for the program. The model for the workshop is based on how Latino families and communities are breaking the strong roots of homophobia with the even stronger roots of love and tolerance. Within the Latino culture and community, multiple factors (including machismo, Catholicism, etc.) have created an environment of fear, intimidation and strong homophobia in which the topic of homosexuality is a distinct taboo never to be discussed. This environment has direct implications and ramifications on public health issues of the Latino LGBT community. Our program is designed to break this silence and commence a dialogue directed to unlearning homophobia. Even though the focus of the presentation takes into account cultural aspects of the Latino community, the overall lesson and principles of our program can be utilized by any culture affected by homophobia and its ramifications on public health.

Learning Objectives:

• 1- To recognize the role that homophobia has in public health as it relates to the Latino LGBT community and the Latino culture.
• 2- To start a dialogue within the Latino community and its allies about unlearning homophobia.
• 3- To analyze and understand the cultural differences that play a role within the Latino community regarding the issue of homophobia and its ramifications to public health.
• 4- To show examples of people within the Latino community who have broken cultural barriers and serve as role models of tolerance and love.

Keywords: Latinos, Homophobia

Related Web page: www.UnlearningHomophobia.com

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: EyeBite Productions documentary videos part of the Unlearning Homophobia Series (as described in website)
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Board Member