Fitting in: Are gay teens accepted by their peers?

By April Perry
Hurricane High School

Every person is brought up in a different way. On the subject of homosexuality, some people are taught that being gay is wrong and isn’t acceptable for any reason, while others are taught that it doesn’t matter and that it shouldn’t make anyone less respected as an individual person.

As more people, including teenagers, have come out as being gay over the years, are they any more accepted than they used to be?

“Gay isn’t being accepted, it’s just being tolerated,” said Hurricane senior Paul. “If it were accepted, I would be able to walk up to some guy and ask him if he wanted to hang out with me after school without him wondering in the back of his mind if I’m hitting on him.”

One reason many people cite for being against homosexuality is because the Bible says it is wrong. But the Bible also says that lying is wrong, and is there anyone who can truthfully say that he or she has never told a lie?

Besides, as senior Kim said, “Being gay is something that you’re born with. People who are straight don’t have to explain why they like someone of a different sex, but gays are always being questioned.”

“Homosexuals are in no way less human than heterosexuals. Homosexuals do not want to be treated any differently than someone who is straight; all we want is acceptance for being us,” said Jeff, a junior.

“Just as Kim said, you are born gay,” he continued. “Why in the world would a human being choose to be ridiculed on a continual basis and be hated by so many people for being gay? No sane person just wakes up one day and says ‘I’m gay.’ Why would they?”

“Being gay is something that should be socially accepted,” said Jesse, a senior. “People have feelings — you can’t help how you are. And pretending to be straight just to be accepted is so upsetting. Everyone should get a chance to be who they really are.”

Jeff agreed. “This is my plea to those of you that read this: please be more open, accepting and less judgmental. After all, homosexuals are people with feelings just like you.”