Edges Magazine Issue 21: The Gay Issue

EDGES MAGAZINE Issue 21

April 2000

The Gay Issue

I used to be a very homophobic person, an abuse issue as a child, tainted views, my old thinking was to give the Gay Community a badge, similar to the Star of David, as given to the Jews in the death camps. "Whoa, hold on, a Heroin Addict judging", a voice inside said to me one day, who am I to judge? In fact, who is anybody to judge? What made me think was the 'coming out' of three members of my family. These are people I love, people who have stood by me, through everything, the lying, cheating and stealing. Could I abandon them because they are Gay? My answer, simply put, no I couldn't.

The 'coming out' of the Gay members of my family really made me look at me, what my values and beliefs were and what they are now. It helped me look at my homophobia - it stemmed from an abuse issue but also if I am truthful, I'd question my sexuality at times, feelings of inadequacy has led me to think 'Am I Gay?'. If most people are honest with themselves the question will have crossed their minds.

The 'coming out' issue also helped me to deal with other areas in my life, it made me look at my abuse issue, as I'd previously looked at Gay people as child abusers. Now it disgusts me when I think of some of my old values and beliefs.

Gay people are human beings, very caring and sensitive for the most. It is important that we remember this, to treat every man or woman with the respect they deserve, and more importantly to treat each other as equal. I for one don't feel I'm better than a Gay person, I feel equal.

I was talking to a good friend recently and informed her I'd like to go to the Gay Village in Manchester next time she is home. She couldn't believe what I was saying. I explained myself and my views and she laughed and said we would have to do it. A small step for mankind! I hope this article has broadened a few horizons for someone.

M.S.