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Published in the Palatine Countryside, February 24, 2005
Published in The Daily Herald, March 5, 2005

Equal Rights or Special Rights?

Editorial by Deb Hale

I find it interesting to see the opposition to SB3186 regarding protection for citizens based upon their sexual orientation.  This country was founded based upon freedom of religion.  Protection of rights based upon race, creed, culture and religion have been on the books for decades.

 Let’s take a brief look at this.  No one can change “what” they are.  Our DNA dictates our race, physical traits as well as other inherent characteristics such as one’s genetic tendency to high cholesterol are things that we cannot change.  “Who” we are is constantly evolving.  Who we want to be while we are growing up may change on a daily basis.  One day we may want to be a doctor, the next we may want to be an astronaut.  What we believe is part of who we are.  Our religious beliefs are chosen beliefs – yet they are protected by the constitution.

 In my opinion, the main argument against “Gay Rights” comes from those whose religious beliefs dictate that being Gay is a choice – and is therefore is not to be afforded the same consideration as protections based upon one’s race.  Yet, what one believes is a choice – and is protected by the constitution.  Ironic isn’t it?  Joe can choose to be a conservative Christian and believe that homosexuality is a choice.  Joe’s beliefs are protected.  Yet Joe believes that someone’s choice to be a homosexual does not deserve the same protection that he enjoys – and is a “special right”.