Day of Truth?

The annual “Day of Silence,” a student led demonstration protesting gay harassment, will take place on College and High School campuses across the country this year on April 18. This is a stand against hatred and discrimination organized by students themselves. Ahh, it almost makes me feel young again.

Unfortunately, conservative Christian organizations have been trying to counter the Day of Silence movement the last three years with what they are calling a “Day of Truth.” On the “Day of Truth” Christians emphasize the interpretation that the Biblical position is that homosexuality is immoral and a sin. This of course presupposes that homosexuality is a choice rather than a genetic imperative such as being left handed or having blue eyes.

Let’s talk about this “Day of Truth” for a moment. I guess one has to accept the argument that this is simply Freedom of Speech in action. After all, everyone is entitled to their opinion. Once we start trying to censor opinions we don’t like we’re going to be in serious trouble. Well, while that may be the case, I’m entitled to think some opinions stink and this is one of those cases.

I have a hard time seeing any difference between gay bashing, anti-Semitism and racism. If Christians are entitled to pitch a “homosexuality is immoral” theme on school property, are skinheads entitled to pitch a “Jews are the murderers of Jesus” message and KKK enthusiasts entitled to pitch a “Blacks are inferior” message? Yes everyone is entitled to their opinion, but aren’t the public schools supposed to be teaching equality and equal protection under the law as principles of American Democracy?

If we’re going to allow highlighting Leviticus 18:22 and Leviticus 20:13 as proof that homosexuality is immoral, then would it be ok to highlight Matthew 27:25 as proof that Jews are responsible for the murder of Jesus, and Genesis 9:26-27 as proof that God intended Blacks to be slaves? Let’s remember that Leviticus 20:13 calls for the death of those engaging in homosexual activities. Are we going to accept a call for the murder of homosexuals on this so-called “Day of Truth?”

No I don’t expect anyone to allow an anti-Semitic or anti-Black rally on public school grounds, we’ve at least gotten beyond that (with the possible exception of Don Imus). Yes you have the right to your opinion, and yes you have the right to express that opinion, but I have the right to express my opinion as well. So, dear Christians, I think your opinion sucks.