The challenges faced by my community should not be minimized. Present day society doesn't hold homosexuals and heterosexuals as equal. Basic rights of the LGBTQ community are being denied as a matter of routine. However, there is much reason for hope.
On Monday, May 7th 2012, President Barrack Obama was the highest official ever to openly support gay marriage. The significance of this act cannot be underestimated. There is no question that political leaders not only reflect changing public opinion on this issue, but that they also exert a very powerful influence on public perception going forward.
The changing trends in public attitude toward the LGBTQ community are evidenced by the fact that eight states and the District of Columbia have changed their rules in recent years to accept same sex marriage. World-wide, more than ten countries also allow gay marriage (2012, Procon.org). The growing network of resources available nationwide is testimony to the fact that positive awareness is evolving.
Statements such as those made by General David Petraeus on the occasion of the repeal of "Don't ask, don't tell":
and from Vice-President Joe Biden:
and, most importantly, President Barrack Obama in his historic statement:
all foreshadow a positive future for my community.
By the time that ten years have passed these forces, both social and political, will create a climate of significantly greater equity in all arenas for the LGBTQ community.
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