President Obama Got It Right

In America where there is a great divide between reality and the Conservative Right it took great courage for the President to make such a clear statement about equality of life for all people. It was a risky business to go against the largest single political group and stand up to the Christian block who stand out and up for such a public demonization of people who have lifestyles unlike their own.

Human sexuality is not a choice, as people are born predisposed to their sexual orientation. Most of us grew up in a world where the very mention of gay or lesbian rights would be unheard of. Many of us bought into the common practice of prejudicial attitudes and public condemnation. However, we changed, and today you are in the minority to hold on to those ignorant and hurtful beliefs.

Canada has been a leader in human rights and equality of life. There are, however, among us a smaller but strong group who would -if permitted - throw us back to the old days and deny the dignity afforded  all citizens by making laws denying the freedoms we now enjoy.

As a person who had for years appreciated the differences in sexual orientation and became comfortable in my association with gay and lesbian co-workers, I am appalled when I witness boorish behaviour. The issue goes even further for me as I feel that the exclusion of anyone for reasons of sexual, religious, racial or any orientation denies these people of the basic human right to be themselves.

Good for Obama to make the statement; now it is up to America to live up to the challenge and welcome neighbours and friends of every persuasion to live together in harmony.