And I completely agree, diversity is the most basic step we generally need to take in society to increase chances of equity and equality. In the disability world we say "nothing about us without us" and that should really apply to all marginalised groups!
If it helps at all we have the same kind of gossip and bigotry here in the UK, it's really frustrating because to many people it's just like their every day chit chat, they don't care who can hear them, and that applies both in areal life and online, just no consideration or understanding that maybe words (and actions that aren't directly seen as harmful) can in fact cause harm.
I also agree about the queer community, along with other marginalised groups, when we stick together we are more powerful, we can't forget that!