Pamphlet Gives Gays Tips to Avoid Attacks

Promising to “fight back,” West Hollywood City Councilman John Heilman joined the Sheriff’s Department Friday night in introducing a pamphlet designed to teach gays and lesbians how to protect themselves from “gay bashing.”

The small yellow-and-purple publication--produced in response to two dozen West Hollywood attacks on gays reported to deputies last year--advises gays to walk together at night, avoid dark places and ignore verbal taunts, among other tips.

Heilman, who is gay, met with reporters and then helped distribute the pamphlet to gay bars along Santa Monica Boulevard. Thousands of the pamphlets also will be available at West Hollywood City Hall.