Well, for starters, in addition to dispensing with the already mentioned pejoratives and similar others, how about this: If someone is thinking about posting a comment lacking any substance at all other than an expression of contempt for gay people as human beings, perhaps that person might want to consider whether he's really adding anything substantive to the conversation at that moment.
And then, perhaps on further consideration, that person might decide that remaining silent would offer more value to FR than would indulging in pointless mean-spirited invective that serves merely to alienate potential visitors who might otherwise be receptive to many of the cogent and compelling ideas that FR offers every single day.
Macemen: “...perhaps that person might want to consider whether he’s really adding anything substantive to the conversation at that moment.”
A fair point. Thank you for the response. Yes, I agree that short quips containing pejoratives add nothing to the discussion and should be avoided.
What could be perceived as a pejorative by some might also be taken as descriptive. The term "queer" (which is now embraced by some in that community) might be interpreted as hateful. On the other hand, that word is apt in the sense of being "odd" or "unusual" from the norm.
And by the way, on lighter note, my hope is that the term "gay" will get restored to its traditional meanings (merry, bright, lively...) in my lifetime. But there were an awful lot of candles on my last birthday cake, so it better happen quickly! :-)