But the solution is not to perpetuate homophobia and silence gay men, by denying gay men's presence in the movement or staying clear of gay issues. Instead, we have to tackle the fear and ignorance that sends men running in the first place, and reject the idea that if you question masculinity you must be gay. But less attention is given to other aspects of homophobia - the contempt and attacks directed specifically at gay men because of their sexuality, and the discriminations and injustices that gay men face. If we are less distanced from gay men and less bothered by the idea that others may see us as gay, then we're far more able to step outside conventional masculinity. We're able to seek greater closeness and intimacy with other men and allow ourselves a more emotional and sensual personality.
Heterosexual men can act as allies to gay and bisexual men.
We can acknowlege gay men's existence, affirm the validity of gay sexuality, defend gay men from attack and support gay struggles. Men and masculinity will not change much until homophobia is radically undermined. Tackling homophobia is therefore a key task for all men.