A letter-writer in the June 15 edition of The Westfield News wonders why we don’t fly a “heterosexual” flag and celebrate “straight” month, in the same way we celebrate Pride Month.
Part of me hesitates to even dignify the letter with a response because I believe that, in asking the question, the letter-writer reveals a less-than-tolerant point of view and perhaps a hidden (or not-so-hidden) agenda. I wonder how she feels about the bill currently before the Massachusetts Legislature which addresses the issue of LGBTQ parental rights?
But maybe I’m wrong, so I’ll answer: There is no need for celebration of a “straight” month because heterosexuals have never been the target of discrimination on account of their heterosexuality. In contrast, gays and other minority groups have indeed been targets, so they sometimes circle the wagons, develop means of supporting each other, and stand up for their basic human rights.