Quote:
Originally posted by DOVE1920:
...why is homosexuality so hard to discuss within the Black community? Do we as a community need to evaluate our ideas of gender and sexuality? Is it our job as an organization to help bring some of these issues to light?
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Homosexuality is hard to discuss, especially within the Black community, in part, because of the deep relationship Black America has with the church, and the church's past stern condemnation of homosexuality. I believe that the myth of the Black Man's sexual prowess may also play a role.
We definitely need to evaluate and address our role in the treatment of homosexuals, and black women in general, especially in the wake of the skyrocketing rates of HIV infection among women of color. The current "don't ask, don't tell" policy in America is failing, big time.
As NPHC orgs, we were all founded to uplift our people through education and service. I believe that should, at the very least extend to treating GLBTs with the dignity and respect that all people are entitled to.
[This message has been edited by TRSimon (edited July 05, 2001).]