It is sad that Mr. Ebers chose to focus on the individuals that his article highlighted. Within our own community here at SIUC are many out lesbian and gay faculty, staff and students who are shaping the lives of those within the gay community as well as the non-gay community. Mr. Ebers had to look no further than this campus to find people who are making significant contributions to society, who also happen to be gay.

Further, Mr. Ebers’ apparent correlation between homosexuality and AIDS exhibits a misunderstanding of both these communities. Mr. Ebers should be reminded of the power of the language he chooses to use, and how misleading it can be when taken out of context and when stated incorrectly. Indeed, I do not want to minimize the importance of his attempt to enlighten his readers regarding the contributions made by the gay and lesbian community.

Finally, to Tracy Taylor and Steve McCoyne, thank you both for your positive story and column. I must, however, gently remind you that the term sexual preference would indicate a choice is being made. We do not determine our sexuality by engaging in any particular sexual act, just as heterosexuals are aware of their orientation prior to becoming involved with a lover before any sexual relationship. The only choice gay and lesbian people have is whether they will accept their sexual orientation and integrate it into their lives, or whether they will deny who they are and lead lives of fear and dishonesty.

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