Family Values--Respect, Responsibility

Hurray for Brian David’s Commentary on Family Values, “Gays Should Not Be Outcasts Just Because of Their Sexual Orientation” (Oct. 18). It’s an elementary point and frustrating to me that it needs to be made over and over again, but basic human rights and respect belong to all people regardless of our differences.

For those Americans that have not been honored with the knowledge of which of their family and friends are gay, they are left with a stereotype that’s highly incorrect and quite dangerous. As Brian David points out, gay teen-agers disenfranchised from their families and peers often attempt suicide to escape a world that incessantly whispers and often shouts how much it hates them.

Gay children have a “sensitive” listening for what their family and friends say about gay people and they decide at an early age if they will have to hide themselves from the people who love them the most. What a lonely alternative.

I urge everyone to be sensitive to whom in their life they may be alienating and bring them back to you with open discussion of your differences and vast similarities. Only through knowledge can we create a world that honors and celebrates the differences of all people.

SCOTT ZUCKER

Laguna Beach