Letter: Most, but not all Christians criticize gay community

Editor,

I am writing in response to Robert Ortiz's letter in Tuesday's Daily Lobo. I agree with Ortiz that it is not simply Christianity that holds negative views toward homosexuality, but I disagree with just about everything else he said. The reason that David Gonzalez primarily targeted Christians in his letter on Monday is because the greatest opposition toward the gay community comes from the Christian community. He was not discriminating against the church, but simply pointing out the strongest opponent.

Ortiz's argument that Christians aren't the only opposition to homosexuals is overshadowed by his religious belief that homosexuality is wrong. He states that anyone who has studied the Bible knows that it states homosexuality is a sin. This point is questionable. I come from a Lutheran church in Santa Fe that hangs a rainbow flag in the common room and marches in the gay pride parade. Is the pastor gay? No. The community of Christ there is simply one that loves and spreads love.

The Bible calls many things a sin, many of which are ignored or not viewed as sins by the general community. If we were to abide by every rule of the Bible, we would continue the practice of slavery and discriminate against other religions, races and women. This would go against the foundation of our country, in which all men are created equal.

I agree with Gonzalez that discrimination against gay men and women is tantamount to discrimination against African-Americans. However, Ortiz reasons that African-Americans are born that way, while people choose to be homosexual and to be discriminated against. It has always amazed me that all the people who say homosexuality is a choice are straight. Ask any lesbian or gay man and they will tell you they had no choice in the matter. Bisexuals can choose to accept or deny their sexuality, as they are naturally attracted to both sexes and can avoid the path that leads to discrimination.

I commend the Daily Lobo for its article on homosexuality last Wednesday. Most of the gay community feels it has to hide from society. It is nice to see a newspaper bringing up the important issues that affect those who hide in fear of persecution.

Simon Hughes

UNM student