Choose Homosexuality

Is Homosexuality a choice?

Tell me I am not the only one bored to death of this question.

When exactly did it become such a significant measure of being gay supportive? The implication being that if you believe that homosexuality is a choice, then you must be homophobic. The question itself relies on the assumption that if you do choose to be gay, then you have clearly made the wrong choice. As if taking away choice, somehow absolves you of your gayness.

Why do queer spokespeople in the US even bother to engage in these discussions? Why this need to assert that it is Not A Choice, We Are Born That Way? Who cares? I don’t mean to belittle the process of understanding and coming to terms with your identity. I have no idea what that must feel like. I don’t identify myself as gay. But aren’t we losing focus? Making it easier for politicians and others to be spoon-fed the right response? If you believe that homosexuals were born gay, does that make you an ally?

I am struck again and again by how presumptive our views of sexuality are in this country. Is it really that radical to wish that we allow sexuality to breathe a little, and allow fluidity, and ambiguity to enter the discourse? If for no other reason than to end the lethargy in our discussions on sexuality.

~ by Sonia on August 15, 2007.