Gay Rights: The American Dream

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Over six decades ago, a great American by the name of Harry Hay, started the first national gay rights organization. This huge step in society was seen as a great symbol of hope for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community who had previously been seen as a disgrace and left to endure the inequality and hatred directed towards them. Hay’s movement came as a joyous daybreak to the end of the long night of perpetual darkness. But, still today, we must face the heartbreaking fact that the LGBT community is still not considered equal. Over sixty years later, the life of the LGBT community is still sadly crippled by the shackles of intolerance and the chains of discrimination. Over sixty years later, the LGBT community lives…show more content…
They have had to suffer through malicious hate crimes, hate speak, and ignorance. However, through it all, it is important to remember that these dark times are going to get better and in the end the suffering will be worth the reward that is coming. So, today, I say that in spite of all the difficulties and frustrations that are currently being felt by those striving for equality for the LGBT community, I still have a dream. This dream is deeply embedded in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise above the ignorance and judgment and live up to the principles we have set: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.” I have a dream that one day Rosie O’Donnell and Sarah Palin will be able to raise a glass with out judgment. I have a dream that one day even the state of Alabama, known to be intolerant, judgmental, and hateful when it comes to the LGBT community, will become accepting and…show more content…
I have a dream today. I have a dream that one day from the sunny coastlines of California to the crowded streets of New York, from the Baptist churches in Arkansas to the green forests of Washington, from the palm trees of Florida to the mountains of Colorado, people will see that all men are created equal and that God is love. And if God is love, he loves everyone- even people who love people of the same sex. And these dreams are what give us hope. With this hope, the LGBT community will be able to walk away from this darkness, fear, and ignorance to a place of hope and happiness. With this hope, they will be able to leave the discrimination behind and live in a world of equality. With this hope, everyone- gay, straight, bisexual, and transgender- will be able to get married, be happy, and live in a world free of judgment. And soon, this day will come. This will be the day when everyone in America will be able to join hands and sing, meaning every word of it: I’m beautiful in my
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