PA Senator “Allowing” Gays to Exist
June 24, 2009 · Print This Article
The Empowering Spirits Foundation (ESF), a national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, has spoken out against Pennsylvania State Senator John Eichelberger (R.) for insensitive remarks he made Friday toward the LGBT community on WHYY, a Philadelphia radio station, and asks that he apologize. Eichelberger, who on May 19th announced he would introduce a bill to amend the Pennsylvania constitution to define marriage as being between only a woman and a man, stated on the Radio Times with Marty Moss-Coane radio show that “We’re allowing “[Gays] to exist, and do what every American can do. We’re just not rewarding them with any special designation.” “Eichelberger’s comments are extremely insensitive. Can you imagine the outrage if someone stated that we ‘allow’ women, or individuals with disabilities, or African Americans to exist? It’s all based in bigotry,” said A. Latham Staples, Empowering Spirits Foundation Executive Director. “No one has authority over another’s existence. And everyone should be entitled to equal rights, not special rights, as envisioned by our founding fathers and guaranteed by the Constitution.” ESF calls upon Eichelberger to immediately apologize to the LGBT community for his insensitive statements. “The great thing about this country is that we are free to have differing viewpoints. But instead of engaging in peaceful dialogue, this senator chose to demean a segment of society and it’s uncalled for,” said Staples “His statements were either bigoted, based off of ignorance or both, and we ask that he immediately apologize to the LGBT community for his remarks. “
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Megan White
Over the past few years I’ve participated in a few marches, rallies, and political activities regarding the LGBT community. However, until today I’ve never felt more proud of our community or any gay and lesbian organization working for us. The Empowering Spirits Foundation’s event today was awesome. It was such a joy to do community service with others, and at the same time engage in conversations regarding gay and lesbian issues with members of society who obviously just didn’t know much about us. I was amazed at how many people opened up, asked more questions than I ever imagined, and seemed to come to a better understanding of the LGBT community. I’m glad I got to meet A. Latham Staples as well. What a nice young man and how great to see someone who is so passionate about equal rights and someone who strives to give back to the community. I highly recommend any one getting involved in ESF’s events. You won’t be disappointed.