The gay and lesbian community has for a long while been ostracized for a condition that many feel they are born with. While some may make a conscious decision to abandon so-called "normal" heterosexual relationships for a walk on the GLBT side, many feel it is part of who they are as much as their hearts are integral to their bodies. Genetic research has lent a lot of credibility to this belief, and has also helped to change the way in which gays are viewed by the public at large. But while conditions are better now than they were 100 years ago, this group of people still has a long way to go in the world at large. To continue to make strides forward, gays have the following responsibilities to their respective communities. Gays and lesbians must protect the young. When a child becomes a man (or woman), he (or she) struggles to define who they are and who they are going to become. Teenagers are particularly susceptible to bullying and abuse, and it has led to some pretty tragic consequences. Younger generations are becoming more accepting of the gay and lesbian lifestyle. It is important to keep this momentum going by making the public aware of what a gay teen goes through. By promoting respect early in life, gays and lesbians of today stand to make the world of tomorrow a much better place. The GLBT community must continue to fight for equal rights. The world does not give gays and lesbians an equal playing field. Many societies still look at it as "sinful" or even "criminal." In the U.S., gays have had a long history of being denied civil rights such as serving in the military or raising children. It is important that members of the GLBT community continue to get involved in politics in their community and the world at large. Gays and lesbians must work to change unhealthy and untrue stereotypes. Religious zealots have long called the gay and lesbian community "depraved" and "sexually charged" without acknowledging their humanity. By forming normal friendships with "straight" people and allowing them to see that you're a person just like them, you will be surprised at how quickly change occurs. The GLBT community must not succumb to the "us versus them" mentality. While denial of civil rights can quickly charge an issue and lead to negative emotions, it is important to remember and respect the individual. The relationships you forge with those who are different from you are and will remain the greatest tool that you have to overcome prejudice, bigotry, and violence. Gays and lesbians must not resort to trampling on the rights of others as theirs have too often been trampled. By being the difference, you can make a difference.
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