Support HRC and GLBT regardless of orientation

An open letter to everybody:

I wanted to thank everybody who has so far accepted my invitation to join the HRC group. I think that it shows that young people have a voice, and that our up and coming generation is willing to be inclusive and accepting of all people.

Regardless of whether you think that being GLBT is a choice or genetic I appreciate the support. Even if it is a choice -- we should all be free to choose our destiny. I advocate the position that it is a biological distinction -- but I thank you for being supportive regardless of your personal beliefs.

As we fight for freedom abroad we musn't ignore our fight for freedom domestically. I encourage you at every opportunity to help us push past this hurdle of discrimination and be accepting -- or at least tolerant -- of millions of fellow Americans. Americans who breathe the same air and contribute to society.

Everybody has a member of their family who they can identify this with. Even if its just a suspicion and they haven't told you -- don't push them away or make them deny who they are. And even if you don't wish to confront them directly at least be supportive of them in their battle for equality.

The pain of concealing who you are is very damaging -- and a heavy burden to bear. For years when I was younger it was difficult to fall asleep at night through the tears. It made me a very cold person -- a person in search of love and acceptance. Help them lift this burden by being supportive -- or at least tolerant -- of their cause.

Thank you.
~Nathan Gower Schwarz