Discussing gay relationships is healthy

I am writing in response to James Finnegan’s letter regarding gay marriage.

I am paraphrasing him when he states that children should not hear about gay marriage or homosexuality in a positive light in school.

Believing that homosexuals are “wrong” fuels homophobia and bullying in schools. Those who are gay struggle to accept who they are in the midst of a society that largely does nothing to quell the remarks such as “That’s so gay” or being called various names.

The spread of homophobia results in suicide attempts (and successes) by gay students.

A 2011 Columbia University study showed that 25 percent of gay students attempted suicide in non-supportive environments compared to 4 percent of their peers. Consider the recently reported fact that the cause of nine gay student suicides in Michele Bachmann’s Minnesota back yard was linked to anti-gay bullying.

Allowing students to spout anti-gay rhetoric without being challenged is to approve bullying. Homophobia is proliferated by repressing the discussion and acceptance of all families.

Same sex families have existed for centuries. They own homes, pay taxes, attend places of worship, and contribute to the community by living and working in your neighborhood.

Talking about these relationships in a positive light in the classroom counters homophobia - and saves lives.

Dayle Roberts

Lake Zurich