The Controversy of Gay Parenting

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The Controversy of Gay Parenting

Gay parenting is an issue that affects a great number of people worldwide. Although the number is a minority, the issue still causes heated debate. People who are in favor of Gay, Lesbian, and Bi-Sexual parenting rights claim that as long as there is a commitment to parenthood then successful parenting is achievable as a homosexual or bi-sexual. Since within a gay couple there is no chance for accidental pregnancy, the couple must make a conscious decision to become a parent. People opposed to homosexual parenting argue that homosexual couples are not capable of having long enduring strong relationships required for the successful upbringing of children. They claim it is in the child's best interest to be raised by one female and one male. Such a family would provide the best environment for healthy intellectual and emotional growth. Obviously the debate over homosexual parenting brings for concepts of individual rights and the definition of family. What the argument boils down to is the definition of a family. With "family" defined there is little argument over who is capable of becoming a parent.

An editorial found in Pride Page, an online gay community news and information cite, offers a defense to the gay, lesbian, and bi-sexual right to parenthood. The article by Brian W. Fairbanks entitled "Gay Parenting is still Parenting" attempts to provide the reader with valid reasons as to why gay couples should be allowed to become parents. Fairbanks believes that the same reason a heterosexual couple should be allowed to have children is greater in homosexual couples. Heterosexual couples are given the right to child-rearing because the are seen as fit to be parents. Homosexual couples have the a...

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...n the world, and it's not for everyone. It takes commitment. It takes sacrifice. Most of all, it takes love. Love, not sex, and gays and lesbians are just as qualified for the job as anyone." This sums up his view without being demanding or critical of anyone's personal point of view. I must note that before reading this editorial I had not given much thought into the subject. Because of Fairbanks' writing I do agree with his view. He has struck a nerve that has caused me to think of homosexual parenting in comparison to my own upbringing. Because Fairbanks' was writing without a controversial tone I was, in a sense, listening better. I understood his argument and his proof, without being too technical, did cause me to reflect on my own definition of 'FAMILY.'

Bibliography:

Fairbanks,Brian W. "Gay Parenting is Still Parenting" www.pridepage.com

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