Gay Rights In America

There have been a large number of social movements throughout American history, many of which were not mentioned by Soloman. Some of the most obvious and popular ones to discuss are the Civil Rights Movement and the Woman's Suffrage Movement. However in recent years more complex and controversial issues have arisen and some groups are fighting twice as hard to have their voices heard and demands met. One social movement that has caught the most attention and publicity and attracted millions of supporters including celebrities and politicians, is the Gay Rights Movement. Similar to African-Americans during the Civil Rights era, or Latinos during the Salt of the Earth Strike, homosexuals have been discriminated against and have been subject to harassment, violent attacks, and unequal treatment in areas like employment, military work and various other rights. One aspect that has made this movement especially controversial and difficult to progress in has been the issue of Church and State. Even though this movement has gained a lot of momentum and support, passing legislation, creating protection and changing this countries treatment of homosexuals is an ongoing battle. One that has been going back and forth in arguments about the bible and the constitutionality of related laws.

Even though some people might view the Gay Rights Movement as far from successful gauging from the extreme amount of discrimination and lack of equality that is still present in our society, the movement has made profound progress thanks to it's specific tactics. Gay Rights still faces many hurdles and challenges, government wise and socially, however thanks to their gaining political influence and increased peaceful demonstrations, huge accomplishments have been made. We have come a long way from the days of homosexuality being listed as a mental disorder in the DSM, mostly in part by the dedication and never-ending fight of supporters. Since 1969 there have been demonstrations, protests, and riots in every state throughout the United States of America. Thousands of people have trucked to state capitals and Washington D.C. to lobby for new legislation that will protect and honor the rights of Gays/Lesbians/Transgenders which are clearly stated in the U.S. Constitution. Many more have signed petitions, taken part in marches, and stood up tall against violent attacks. More recently some of the most profound outcomes of this struggle have begun to show themselves, and for many people, making this fight finally all worth it. In the last 11 years seven states have passed laws recognizing and allowing gay/lesbian civil unions and marriages. Seven out of 50 states may not seem like a lot but progress is being made. One of the biggest reforms in the United States relating to gay/lesbian rights was the repeal of the “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” law which banned U.S. citizens from being openly homosexual in the military. This was a landmark decision in the history of the United States, and for the first time put homosexual rights on the forefront of American politics, challenging every “acceptable” norm this country has ever held.

Because the most monumental moments of this movement have just recently happened over the last decade and a half, I have been alive to witness and experience it. Most movements that I have learned about throughout my life are ones from many years past, and while they influence the life I live now, it is hard to appreciate the value of them so many years later. I believe out of all of the movements that have progressed and grown in the beginning of the 21st century, I have been most aware of this one because of how prominent it has been in the media and in our generation. As the years have gone by, more and more people have become open and accepting of different lifestyles and beliefs. Our generation has grown up in a time where it is fairly normal for people to be openly gay, and many of us have a problem understanding why they are not guaranteed the same rights and privileges as everyone else. I am personally passionate about the Gay Rights Movement, and am a strong advocate of everyone achieving true equality. For this reason I am incredibly grateful to have been around to witness the peak of this ongoing struggle. Just like we talk about the important impact that movements of the past have had on our country now, I believe decades in the future people will look back and appreciate what this movement has done for the lives of many Americans.