Gays and Scouts

I read Paul Harris’s (Nov. 22) letter in the Los Angeles Times. It was obvious he is either confused about discrimination within the Boy Scouts or chooses not to accept the current laws of the land.

I support United Way because it efficiently meets many of the social service needs in our community.

I support the Boy Scouts because it provides constructive activities and helps keep our children off the street.

I am not gay, but I do respect an individual’s right to choose their sexual preference. I despise discrimination.

Harris urged United Way to cut ties with the Boy Scouts. In other words, discriminate against the thousands of community members participating in programs funded by United Way through the Boy Scouts?

He quotes the explanation received from a United Way representative stating the organization “holds strongly to the principles of non-discrimination as defined by the federal, state, and local law.” I don’t think he understands the significance of this statement. The current discrimination law is silent on sexual preference. The Boy Scouts are not breaking the law as it is currently written.

If we take the time to think about this entire issue it becomes perfectly clear. The issue is not the Boy Scouts; nor is it the United Way. The issue is the gay community aspiring to change the discrimination law to include “sexual preference” and non-gays wishing the law to stay the same. It is truly sad that factions on both sides would hold United Way and its agencies hostage and withhold support in order to realize their special interests.

TIM GALLOWAY

San Diego