Romanovsky & Phillips - When Hetrosexism Strikes Lyrics
This was written after reading an article by Joseph Neisen inthe Fall 1990 issue of OUT/LOOK, titled "Heterosexism orHomophobia? 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 gaymen and lesbians... use of heterosexism leads the way fromvictimization to survival.")You're applying for a jobSo you're filling out a formAnd for all intents and purposesYou fit into the normUntil it says to list your next of kinBut there's no box to fit you inCause the one you loveThe one who shares your lifeIs not your husband or your wifeOh no!Heterosexism strikes againSo use the power of the penTo draw a box of your own and thenLabel it however you like:Lover, spouse or partner-in-lifeThat's one way you can fightWhen heterosexism strikesMichael served his country wellWhen he went to fight the warAnd each letter from his loverHe locked safely in a drawerUntil a witch hunt of McCarthy styleDemanded he be put on trialThey said his love, his sexualityThreatened national securityOh no!Heterosexism knocks you downBut pick yourself up off the groundAnd challenge them to a second roundGet a lawyer, file a reportDrag their asses back into courtThat's one way you can fightWhen heterosexism strikesDon't let them break you, or make you miserableDon't let them take you, and make you invisibleWe're here, we're queer, that's a natural factWhen heterosexism strikes, strike back!Sharon and her lover SueDanced and dined by candlelightThey were one of many couples getting intimate that nightUntil the waiter asked them both to leaveAnd they looked at him in disbeliefAs he ended their romantic night of blissBecause they'd had the nerve to kissOh no!Heterosexism strikes againBut you've got rights you must defendSo get together a group of your gayest friendsGo back to the scene of the crimeHug and kiss and have a good timeThat's one way you can fightWhen heterosexism strikesHeterosexism on the looseBut you don't have to take abuseNo! Now's the time we can put to useThe righteous anger we feelThe love we're taught to concealWe've got to stand up and fightWhen heterosexism strikes
