Hmm, there seems to be a pretty strong reaction to this thread coming in from all sides. I figured I'd just throw my bit in there
Pretty much, I'll be the first to admit that I stereotype. I'll look at someone and be the first to decide if I think they're gay, straight, this, that or the other. However, I dont no let these stereotypes (to the best of my ability) interfere with how I interact with, and treat people. I cant remember wherefrom, but I remember hearing/learning (depending on what you believe ) that stereotypes are another form of vestigial structures so to speak. Basically, at one point, stereotypes were likely a form of survival mechanism. If your tribe was not friends with x tribe, and they looked like y, it would be good for your health to avoid running into more y-looking people then you could safely fight on your own. Obviously, this social dynamic/mechanic isn't especially useful these days, as you usually dont have to worry about fighting everyone simply on the basis they wear prada
Anyways, my point is, its pretty much useless to try and fight the "stereotype" gene, and it is much better to focus on the next step of the equation; making the conscious effort to say to yourself, "Despite the fact I heard gays are terrible with machines, I'm going to ask my friend whom happens to be gay for help fixing my car." People are so fixated on the stereotypes themselves, which are much more difficult to deal with. It seems to me that everyone accepting that we stereotype is a much better goal, followed by working towards combating the urge to act based on the (often false) ideas surrounding stereotypes and what they mean about the people they're attatched to.
To answer the questions raised by the OP, I can see what you mean about it being aggravating how many traits and skills one might have, are often traced back to a totally irrelevant quality you have, namely, being gay.
I have more to say on this issue, but must go for now! I shall edit later