They couch it in a way that raises doubt and fear among those who would normally be supportive of the notion of equal rights for all. They use it to create the perception that gays aren't just looking for equality, but instead to impose homosexual domination.
This 'scared straight' strategy has evolved as a matter of necessity. They have come to realize that a message of bigotry does not sell well in mainstream America, and recognize that fear is a far more effective strategy. What better way to run the sheep out of town than to dress it in wolves' clothing? Their portrayal of the 'gay agenda' is intended to do just that.
From my perspective, the best way to combat the myth of the gay agenda is to hit it head on. While I can't speak for the entire LGBT community, I can say that I have an agenda - and I am certain that it is not mine alone.
Consider the core of my agenda to be a 'Gay Bill of Rights'. These are inalienable rights I deserve as a U.S. citizen, but am not universally granted due to bigoted legislative policies at both the state and federal levels.
They include:
- The right to live freely as a gay man - without fear of physical or verbal abuse due to my sexual identity
- The right to love and marry my partner - receiving the same federal and state benefits extended to heterosexual couples
- The right to raise a family - including the right to adopt children
- The right to earn a living - without fear of being fired or harrassed due to discriminatory policies based on my sexual identity
- The right to serve my country in any of the armed forces without having to hide my sexual identity
As part of my agenda, I also hope to dispel some of the myths that spawn the fear that fuels bigotry. While I've addressed many of the long-standing societal myths and stereotypes in previous blog entries, there are emerging myths that are effectively thwarting equality legislation around the country.
Some of these myths include:
- The myth that same sex marriage legislation will force religious institutions to perform same sex marriages even it is contrary to their doctrine
- The myth that LGBT equality legislation will force schools to encourage children to adopt a 'gay lifestyle'
- The myth that repealing 'Don't Ask Don't Tell' will weaken our armed forces and put our troops at risk
- The myth that LGBT equality legislation will give gays and lesbians 'special rights' not extended to other U.S. citizens
I hope it goes without saying that none of these myths are true. They are deceptions that have been crafted by anti-LGBT activists who are trying to impose their own bigoted beliefs on society through legislative action. Contrary to their assertions, LGBT equality legislation is intended to protect the LGBT community from bigoted injustice - NOT to impose new injustices on the rest of society.
Equality is a simple premise. The only people who seem to be confused or threatened by it are those who believe that gays aren't equal to begin with.
Future blog entries will expound on each of the gay rights listed above. We have made promising strides on some fronts, while suffering devastating set-backs on others. I do believe we are on the right side of history, and we will not rest until equality is achieved.
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