by Kerry Hosking

Created on: August 23, 2009

Historically, homosexual behavior was not always regarded as immoral, sinful or obscene. In fact, in some ancient societies such as Greece, it was not uncommon for adolescent males to engage in intimate relationships with older men. From a religious viewpoint, however, attitudes toward gay male and lesbian sexual practices were indeed, a sin for which one could expect the ultimate punishment.

As liberal as today's society may seem, it was only as recently as 1968 that the " Supreme Court decision (Hardwick v. Bowers) let stand a Georgia sodomy law that makes oral-genital or anal-genital sexual contact crimes punishable by up to 20 years in prison, even when engaged in by consenting adults" (Rathus, Nevid, & Fichner-Rathus, 2005, p.307). Regardless of one's attitude about sexual orientation, it cannot be argued that antiquated laws such as these needed prompt revision by a government whose job it is to protect the constitutional rights of its citizens. To this day, the majority of peoples' indifference to homosexuality is fear and ignorance.

Contrary to popular belief, the terms sexual orientation and homosexual behavior do not always amount to the same thing. For those who openly voice their homophobic opinion, there may indeed be a deep-seated fear that their own feelings toward another person of the same sex could be misconstrued. A close intimate relationship with an individual of the same gender may never lead to sexual contact, although it is unlikely that anyone who harbors thoughts of such a friendship are going to admit to them. Homophobic people often go out of their way to verbally bash gay people; they make it difficult for them to obtain employment despite antidiscrimination laws, they oppose gay marriage, and believe that civil unions are a means to somehow bend society's otherwise perfect rules.

Arkansas has been a prime example of such difficulties for the gay community. The laws have flip-flopped on several occasions regarding gay and lesbian foster parents and their adoption rights. As recently as 2008, a new twist was added to this scenario, making it even harder for those who wish to help a needy child. Law was passed in the "natural state" to ban single parents from adopting, as well as providing much needed foster care for thousands of needy children. As it would happen, gay and lesbian marriage is not recognized in that state, therefore this group of well meaning individuals was immediately disqualified from offering urgent assistance.

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