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Overview:There have been many instances in the past when various groups have been oppressed: (e.g. non-land owners denied the vote, African-Americans denied the right to marry, African-Americans enslaved, women denied the vote, inter-faith and inter-racial couples denied permission to marry, African-Americans suffering under racial segregation). Each group fought for for and has gradually achieved equal rights. A case can be made that it is reasonable to expect that gays and lesbians will follow the same path over the next generation. A national poll of Year 2001 U.S. high school seniors indicates that they support equal rights for gays and lesbians at a much higher level than their parents. North American opposition for equal rights for gays, lesbians and bisexuals seems to be more prevalent in the conservative wings of Christianity, Islam, Judaism and other religions. Polls have encouraged some to ask for plebiscites on matters like same-sex marriage. Their thinking is that taking those special rights which have been traditionally reserved for heterosexuals and either extending them or denying them to homosexuals should be determined by a vote of the public. If 50% plus one person is in favor of equal rights for gays and lesbians, then they should enjoy them. Otherwise, not. This belief establishes a very dangerous precedence. If the state can deny any minority certain rights, then nobody is really safe. After all, everyone is a member of at least one minority.
Topics covered in this section:
** These topics are of particular interest, because they give insight into what the next generation believes.
Additional information:
Copyright © 2001 to 2007 by Ontario Consultants on Religious
Tolerance
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