The Right’ Anti-Gay Crusades Have Driven Too Many People Into The Closet and Destroyed Lives, says TWO
NEW YORK — Truth Wins Out placed the blame today for the tragic denial and guilty plea of Republican Sen. Larry Craig (R-ID) – for soliciting a male police officer at the Minneapolis airport – at the feet of right wing churches.
“In recent years, conservatives have redoubled their attacks on gay people, which has only led to destructive double lives by closeted individuals,” said Truth Wins Out’ Executive Director Wayne Besen. “Right wing groups sell the false notion that one can get married and go straight. Unfortunately, the case of Sen. Craig demonstrates that it is often straight to the restroom for illicit sex. This anti-gay crusade is as detrimental for society as it is for the families who are living the lie.”
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force pointed out that Craig supported both the Federal Marriage Amendment and Idaho’s anti-same-sex marriage constitutional amendment. He is not supportive of nondiscrimination and hate crimes legislation that would extend protections to gay people and has even refused to pledge that his own office would not discriminate against LGBT people.
In June, Sen. Craig was arrested and plead guilty for soliciting a police officer for sex. The Senator offered tortured attempts to explain away the obvious.
“At the time of this incident, I complained to the police that they were misconstruing my actions,” Craig said. “I should have had the advice of counsel in resolving this matter. In hindsight, I should not have pled guilty. I was trying to handle this matter myself quickly and expeditiously.”
This was not the first time Craig had been identified for alleged gay sexual activity. Activist Mike Rogers had previously revealed that Craig was a known cruiser at Washington’ notorious Union Station restrooms. Still, at his press conference today, Craig implausibly denied his homosexuality. “I am not gay. I never have been gay,” said Craig.
Truth Wins OUT is a non-profit organization that counters right wing propaganda, exposes the “ex-gay” myth and educates America about gay life. For more information, visit www.TruthWinsOut.org.
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