Drugs in the Gay Community: Headlines, Trends, Stigma

From a very early age, we hear one saying over and over again: “Say no to drugs.” Mainstream society considers them dangerous, impairing judgment and negatively affecting overall health. Many cultures around the world frown upon drug usage. But drugs come in many different forms, many of which are entirely legal. They produce differing effects on the body and mind, from a glass of wine or coffee to marijuana, which remains illegal through much of the world despite its effects on the body being relatively mild. Harder substances like cocaine, meth and heroin can be deadly, crippling a person’s ability to lead a normal life. The gay community has always had a rather unique relationship with drugs and drug use. Hornet tackles the history of drug use as it relates to the LGBTQ community and culture, along with the latest relevant headlines, discussion of stigma and studies examining drug use.