We hesitated to speak out on the gay rights issue. However, the time has come to put a face on it.

Homosexuals are everywhere, and they are all members of families. For those of us with homosexual family members, it is time we stand up. If the gay community could, we would be amazed. You see, they could lose their jobs, housing or credit.

The military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy might cost a person his or her job. In Maine, even if you don’t tell, you can be fired. Maine is the only state in New England that has refused to protect its citizens, and it’s being done in the name of God.

A friend told us that when he was asked why he chose to be gay, he said, “Who in their right mind would choose to be an outcast in society?”

None of us remembers choosing sexual orientation.

Many people have signed petitions to overturn the law passed by the Legislature; some are friends and neighbors. I would ask them to reconsider.

We do not want to harm anyone else’s family. Why do others want to hurt ours? Please let the homosexual community have the same rights that other family members have.

Do we really want our laws made by religious fundamentalists with a strict agenda? We elect our legislators; we must allow them to do their job and stop this insanity.

Our motto should be “live and let live,” not “let’s discriminate.”

Eleanor and Bob Shimko, Lewiston

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