Lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgendered people come from families, from all corners of the earth, from every culture, religious, ethnic group and are in every occupation. Kinsey estimated that about 10% of the population is homosexual and that gay people and their families represent over one third of the people in this country.
Both the American Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association have recognized that homosexuality is not a mental or emotional disorder. Gay men and women share the same amount of interest in sexual activity as heterosexual persons, neither more nor less. Lifestyles of GayLesBiTrans persons cannot be lumped into one category any more than heterosexual lifestyles. GayLesBiTrans persons establish stable,long lasting relationships, work for a living, and are consumers who pay taxes, vote and are involved in the community.
Homosexuality is not chosen, like selecting clothes or a line of work. No one knows how human sexual orientation is determined. In discussions with thousands of families with gay children, we found that: The gay child is most often aware of his/her sexual orientation at a very early age. None of the the children were influenced or taught by a gay person. In homes where gay children try to become heterosexual, all attempts fail. Being gay is not just a stage youngsters go through.
One in every four families has a gay member, too often frightened and closeted. Rejection of a gay person by the family is a tragedy for the immediate and extended family unit.
The incidence of suicide is disproportionately high among GayLesBiTrans teenagers trying to cope with their sexuality. Cruel harassment and even physical violence are common against GayLesbiTrans persons. Because new windows of understanding have been opened to us as parents and family members, we want to bring this understanding to the community.
