Human rights versus religious teachings: LGBTQ citizens

Allow me to make it quite clear that I am a true believer in equality, be it those who belong to the LGBTQ community, have religious beliefs, regardless of country of origin, variations in the colour of skin, or any other aspect we possess as unique individuals, we are all, each one of us, members of the human race. As such, we are entitled to be equal and that is our human right.

As an atheist, looking in from the outside of any religious affiliation, I understand that over the centuries negativity has been overwhelming in that “homosexuality” has consistently been criticized and rejected outright as an identity that is true to our very being. Now we must add true gender identity and expression to the list of discriminatory attitudes.

Followers of religion only accept one as being “normal” if one falls in love with a person of the opposite sex and so must procreate to extend the membership in Christianity, or any other religion in this world. Most churches, especially in the hierarchies, tell us to take a stand against members of the LGBTQ community. Pope Francis and the Vatican, and right-wing evangelical groups are adamant in pushing for the rejection of the aforementioned members of the population.

As I mentioned, religious freedom is a human right, but is it also a human right to discriminate? In many countries that is the case, even in Canada where religious beliefs are protected under the laws of the land. This is as it should be, but as hate of a certain group is evident then this is discrimination and that is also against our laws, which in turn are supposed to protect all of us.

We live in a society that is constantly at war, where violence is the norm, where power hungry leaders are successful in controlling their citizens, where jealousy and hate reign supreme. This is reality. Do we give in and let ourselves be intimidated by the constant hateful rhetoric from the likes of Donald Trump? No, we cannot lay down our defences. If religious doctrine, in whatever church or organization, continues on the path of rejecting LGBTQ people then dialogue will not be of any benefit, in which case discrimination will continue and proceed to go into future generations.

In order to unite, all groups and individuals must come to terms with the diversity of the world’s population. The huge problem is to initiate dialogue, productive inclusive talks with church officials at the highest level.

I am certain that this is a futile exercise and success unattainable at present. In our quest for equal rights, equal treatment and opportunity, changes must be forthcoming with religious organizations willing to converse with the LGBTQ community world-wide. If leaders are unwilling to take part in such talks then governments must take action to make discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression a violation of human rights.

The fires are being stoked continuously by Pope Francis and others such as a pastor in New Westminster, B.C., who objects to transgender rights.

I believe love still makes the world go around, LOVE being the operative word. Celebrate our differences, don’t destroy them.

Comments and questions: lgbtconnectionsgv@gmail.com.