Yes, I would speak up, whether it affects me directly or not, because any racist, homophobic or sexist comment affects someone I know, love or respect.

Racist, homophobic and sexist behavior should never be tolerated. Ever.

I haven't really had a problem with this among my circle of friends or relatives. Most are pretty tolerant and sensitive to differences in people, or if they have an opposing view, they're smart enough to keep it to themselves. If I do encounter a remark, I usually respond with a lifted eyebrow, dead silence, a blank stare or a pointed "What?" or a combination of all four. That's usually sufficient. I have an aged aunt who in the past has occasionally let slip the racist remark, but out of respect for her advanced age, the aforementioned reactions are as far as I go.

I hope I would confront people, but can't say I always would. For example, the occasional elderly customer at work has made a comment and since it isn't my place to say anything, IMO, I keep quiet.

Homophobic comments, especially, bother me. Even though I live a straight-appearing life, I am NOT straight, and any comment to the effect of belittling gay people belittles me as well. I wonder if people would say those things if they knew who I really am.

Also, I've heard comments about Yuna -- I am always having to know where to draw the line between assuming the person is well-meaning (comments about her skin, hair, etc.) and simply hasn't seen a black person up close before, which people around here really may not have, or if there is a judging tone to it.