More often than not, an article relating to a minority group brings a question of ethics in some shape or form. So was the case for the piece entitled, "A Youth Ministry Some Call Antigay Tests Tolerance."
The article was centered on a two-day event called BattleCry. BattleCry is a Christian ministry from Texas that condemns homosexuality. The event takes place in San Francisco, which is often called "the gayest city in America."
The event attracts thousands of people of all ages, colors, and backgrounds. Through concerts and inspirational speakers, these teens will be speaking out their views about sex on television, obscene music, and violent video games. They believe that corporate America is twisting the minds of American teenagers while everyone watches it happen.
As reported in The Times, several prominent San Francisco political leaders say this group is the ones actually doing the damage. Tom Ammiano, a gay member of the city's Board of Supervisors says BattleCry is being fed and spoon feeding hate. The group has also been called reckless and irresponsible.
Aaron Peskin, the board's president stated, "We need to increase understanding of our human differences, not teach our kids to be suspicious and hateful towards people unlike them."
Mr. Peskin's statement reveals and ethical dilemma. Is it ethical that if he is so opposed to people speaking out that are different than him, isn't he doing the same speaking out against this group? We are a nation of Freedom of Speech; Mr. Peskin seems to have forgotten that.
BattleCry officials do have the rebuttal. They complain that San Francisco has made their lives difficult by imposing noise restrictions on a planned Saturday morning celebration. City officials said the restrictions came after numerous complaints about last year's event. I would be willing to bet there are no noise limits on the festivities of something like a Gay Parade in town.
One of BattleCry's attendees claims she doesn't see anything antigay about the event, however, she also believes gay people are misguided. Is she the one that is misguided by this event to come to that kind of thinking?
Joe D'Alessandro, the president of the San Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau claims, "I am gay myself, and I find their beliefs very offensive. But they have a right to come to our city." If more people could think like Mr. D'Alessandro, the world would be a much better, much more reasonable place.
Article by: JESSE MCKINLEY
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