To misname sexual orientation as "sexual preference" is disingenuous at best. Sexual orientation is not a "choice" at least not according to the following groups of specialists:

American Academy of Pediatrics
American Association of School Administrators
American Counseling Association
American Federation of Teachers
American Psychological Association
American School Counselor Association
American School Health Association
Interfaith Alliance Foundation
National Association of School Psychologists
National Association of Secondary School Principals
National Association of Social Workers
National Education Association
School Social Work Association of America

If it were possible to "choose", I can't imagine what could possibly induce 10 percent of the population to "choose" to be ostracized, bullied and generally made to feel inferior, outcast and sinful by their families, communities, churches and peers at the very time and about the very issues that they need the most to feel supported and loved about.

To those who believe that one's sexual orientation can be changed by therapy or religious intervention... please look at the permanent damage that is being done by this ignorance and disrespect. Your gay family members and friends can often hide their sexual orientation, but they can no more change their sexual orientation than you could change the color of your eyes or skin. They need your love and acceptance, not your prejudice and bigotry.

I send blessings to Bentonville High School administrators, staff and students who support the mental and physical health of their entire community, gay and straight. Keep up the good work!

best, Judith Levine

Posted by: jrlevine

December 13, 2009 at 8:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )