gay | Campus Safe Words

TERM: gay
RISK LEVEL: high

Definition

“Gay” refers to a person, typically a man, who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to individuals of the same sex. In higher education, the term appears in student life programming, nondiscrimination policies, health resources, academic courses, and public events, often as part of broader LGBTQ+ inclusion efforts.

Why It’s Risky

Although “gay” is a widely recognized and legally protected identity under many nondiscrimination laws, its use in public institutions has become politically sensitive in states where legislation restricts instruction or institutional endorsement of gender and sexuality-related topics. Under laws such as Florida’s Parental Rights in Education Act and Tennessee’s Age-Appropriate Materials Act, institutions are under increased scrutiny for language related to sexual orientation—especially when used in student programming, K–12 outreach, or materials that could be accessed by minors. While the term is not banned, its presence in programming, policies, or job descriptions may trigger political pushback or accusations of promoting ideologically driven content. Risk increases when the term appears in materials perceived as advocacy rather than legal compliance or academic study.

Common Critiques

Critics argue that references to “gay” in public education settings—especially outside of health or legal contexts—can reflect a broader ideological agenda tied to identity politics. In some conservative settings, references to sexual orientation in student life or curriculum are viewed as inappropriate, particularly if they are interpreted as normalizing specific lifestyles or viewpoints. Some policymakers express concern that such language is used to advance activist goals under the banner of inclusion. Institutions that promote gay-focused events, centers, or course content without careful alignment to academic mission or legal requirements may be accused of political bias or misuse of public funds. These critiques are especially pointed when programming appears in general education curricula, residential life, or hiring statements and is not clearly tied to compliance with Title IX or lawful support services.

Suggested Substitutes

Sexual orientation (in nondiscrimination or HR policies)
Same-sex attracted individuals (in health or counseling contexts)
LGBTQ+ inclusion (in academic course descriptions or event planning)
Students of all identities (in student affairs or outreach language)
Support for identity-based student groups (in policy-neutral frameworks)

These alternatives maintain legal protections while avoiding terms that could be viewed as culturally or politically affirming.

When It May Still Be Appropriate

“Gay” is appropriate in academic coursework (e.g., literature, history, sociology) when the term is used descriptively and contextually. It may also be used in legally required nondiscrimination statements and in direct references to student organizations or programs when participation is voluntary. Use caution in required training materials, grant proposals, or public messaging, particularly in states with laws limiting institutional speech on identity-related topics.

NOTES: Use “gay” respectfully and descriptively, not affirmatively or prescriptively, in compliance-sensitive contexts. Avoid pairing the term with ideological or advocacy framing unless clearly justified by academic mission. Emphasize individual dignity, legal protections, and academic relevance to maintain defensibility in conservative policy environments.