Maybe I Missed the Memo

As I checked my daily news outlets, I came across an article that hit a raw nerve with me. One of the most irrational, truly homophobic arguments has been that we as gays and lesbians cannot procreate so we must “recruit”. The basis of this argument encompasses our so-called conversion of nice homely church going youth into our corrupt “lifestyle.” This logic implies that somewhere out there is an organization that promotes conversion through pamphlets and video indoctrination. The fallacy, of course, is that no such organization exits.

There are, I will fully admit, organizations that are established for the purposes of helping those who feel that they might be gay or lesbian. These organizations provide a supportive environment for youth to be able express themselves and develop their own ideas of sexuality. There is an abundance of information on how to support those who are going through one of the several coming out models and answers to questions many have during this stage in their development. However, I have never seen anything that lists the actual steps to go through to become homosexual. Never have I seen anything that lays out the exact words to say to make someone gay (almost like a spell or incantation that would magically make the hot guy next to you suddenly gay). Perhaps, I just missed that memo. What I have seen, and in fact have been given on a number of occasions, is information on step-by-step instructions on what to say to someone to make them straight.

These informational pieces list word for word scripts and scriptures to recite to someone in order to bring them back to “G_d’s” plan. There are a number of organizations whose sole purpose is to literally convert homosexuals to heterosexuals. One such organization is going to premiere a new film called I Do Exist on October 11th, a day known as National Coming Out Day (NCOD), which commemorates the March on Washington for Gay and Lesbian rights. This film is said to highlight four success stories on how people overcame their homosexuality and now proclaim their heterosexuality. In addition to these success stories, there is expert testimony from “noted” psychiatrists and other mental health professionals highlighting the benefits of conversion. While this particular film may not be a step-by-step guide to conversion, it highlights the process for those who might want to convert.

While this is only one of many examples of hypocrisy, it is the one that bothers me the most. This conversion factor seems to strike at the heart of our battle for equality and respect by attacking our very existence. Unfortunately in many people’s eyes, as long as there is a cure, we never need to be legitimized. As long as our lives continue to be perceived as a choice, or nothing more than a bad habit that can be overcome with enough group therapy and scripture, we will not be able to protect and fully assert our rights. As long as Exodus International and other like-minded organizations exist, we will not be treated as full and equal citizens. Let me make myself perfectly clear, I believe these organizations have a right to exist. I also believe that it is our responsibility to stand up to such organizations and call attention to their blatant hypocrisy. Something we can do by continuing to educate the general public on who we are and what it really means to be Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual.