GAYS: An issue of civil rights

It is profoundly discouraging to read a letter like the one submitted by Mr. Steve Novak on Sunday, July 29, which letter lauded the Boy Scouts’ recent confirmation of its policy to exclude openly gay scouts and troop leaders.

This unfortunate letter conflates homosexuality and pedophilia, revealing tremendous confusion and ignorance about what those respective concepts mean. Sadly, Mr. Novak is not the only individual whose substantial confusion and prejudices compel him to compare a gay troop leader to Jerry Sandusky. So, very briefly, to clarify: “homosexual” references people who are sexually attracted to individuals of the same gender and who are just as likely as heterosexual members of our community to lead productive, loving, fulfilling lives with an adult partner of their choosing. “Pedophile” references people who are attracted to children. Pretty distinct concepts.

Recognizing this distinction is the first step toward a more tolerant, genuinely Christian nation — a nation for which the issue of homosexuality will eventually be seen for what it is: a matter of civil rights. In 50 years (hopefully less) we, as a society, will look back with shame at the irrational, random and inequitable treatment of gays regarding basic issues of civil rights. In the meantime, all we can do is attempt to educate our children in the ways of tolerance, rationality and compassion and avoid confusing ignorance and morality.

EILEEN McGOVERN

Coeur d’Alene