Antigay violence -- violence directed against persons or property because of the individual's homosexuality -- is caused by anti-gay prejudice and the perception that gays are easy targets. Such violence is a longstanding and pervasive problem. Recent surveys indicate that such violence has increased and that the majority of gay respondents have experienced some sort of victimization because of their sexual orientation. Further, a 1984 nationwide survey of 2,100 gays indicated that males reported higher levels of verbal harassment and physical assaults; while females reported higher levels of sexual harassment or assault, more verbal abuse from families, and greater fear of violence. Data also indicate that the great majority of victims of antigay violence do not report the offenses to authorities. Despite the prevalence of antigay violence, the Federal Government has not taken a single initiative to address the issue. Further, few States have taken steps to curb antigay violence; only California and Seattle have passed laws that specifically address antigay violence and intimidation. Policy recommendations for dealing with violence and discrimination against gays are provided. 8 figures, 23 footnotes, and 18 references.