Tolerance vs. acceptance: What's wrong with "that's so gay"?

Do you still use the phrase "that's so gay"? Or know someone who does?

Here's a smart and humorously illustrated explanation from queer activist Ash Beckham, who was speaking at Ignite Boulder 20, an evening of presentations in Boulder, Colorado. It's been making the rounds on the internet but it's worth reposting for the two of you out there who haven't seen it.

(Speaking of Colorado, the state just approved same-sex civil unions—in lieu of gay marriage—today. Voters approved a same-sex marriage ban in the state in 2006. One step at a time...)

Beckham not only explains why you shouldn't use the word "gay" in a pejorative way but she also insightfully points out the difference between tolerance and acceptance.

In 2008, comedian Wanda Sykes (who publicly came out that same year) participated in a PSA campaign about the same issue. (Even teen queen—remember her?—Hilary Duff got in on the act.)

If Beckham's point flew over your head, here's another way of looking at it: