Anti-gay violence in the workplace, and parents asking questions about their gay or lesbian children have been hot topics on the phone at Auckland's Gayline/Lesbianline this month. Auckland Gay and Lesbian Welfare Group manager Neil Denney says he has taken some calls recently regarding violence in the workplace - leveled at men because of their sexual orientation. “This has included both emotional and physical abuse,” he explains. “The stories have involved physical assault that has followed verbal abuse and harassment by other male workers. In one case the assault resulted in the person requiring hospitalisation. In two cases the employer was watching this take place and took no action.” Denney says it's important to let the caller share their stories and feelings – in some cases the callers were very upset. He encourages the callers to lay a complaint with the police so that the incidents are recorded and the other person is held accountable. “I have encouraged them to stand tall and proud and not take anything lying down. This type of blatant harassment is not on, is illegal and as a community we should not tolerate it in any form.” There have also been a number of calls recently from parents asking questions about their gay children in a very positive and supportive way, says Denney. “Not one call was in anger or concern, but they expressed their willingness to accept the decision of the child and to learn what it's all about, so they could be as supportive as possible during their child's journey to come out. “One surprising theme has been the concern by the parents that they want to help their son or daughter make as easy a transition as possible and that they are aware of their lack of information that they need to be able to help.” Denney says he has been touched by their concern and their acceptance of their gay or lesbian son or daughter, but often the parent is scared to initially broach the subject with them. “Assisting them with strategies to do this is very rewarding,” he says. The Gayline/Lesbianline number to call is (09) 303 3584, or freephone nationwide on 0800 802 437. Ref: AGLW (m)