The choice of words really does matter

Several recent letter writers have spoken out against homosexuality - strong words about the “abomination to God” and the “special treatment” those homosexuals are asking for. It's always “those” or “they.”

One writer today (Nov. 18, Lori Coronado letter) said there was no homosexual gene. Well, is there a Jewish gene? An Irish gene? A Muslim gene? If you took out every instance the writer wrote “homosexual” and inserted “Jew” or “Muslim” or “African-American,”the readership would be up in arms, as they should be! Such an expression of hatred! But since we're talking about gays, it's OK to say these things.

Well, it's not. It's small-minded fear of the different. And it is the open expression of hate and bigotry toward the gay population that makes it acceptable to say “that's so gay” (meaning negative), to marginalize gays in society, and leads right on down the line to bullying, violence and the scenario where a gay teen feels so hopeless he or she takes their life. It has happened a lot lately.

When do you think we'll get past this?

Caroline Kipp-Sutliff

Iowa City