By Matt Underwood Canada, Europeans, and Brazil, not the US, issued statements backing LGBT rights. It’s striking, isn’t it? The contrast highlights a significant shift in the global landscape of human rights, where the United States, a country often perceived as a leader in these areas, seems to be lagging behind. It’s a stark illustration of how different nations prioritize, or perhaps don’t prioritize, the protection and advancement of LGBT rights. It feels almost… backwards. The speed at which some of these shifts occur can be unsettling.
The reasons behind this divergence are complex. Some observers attribute it to a form of theocratic influence taking hold, where certain religious viewpoints heavily influence political decisions. This is especially concerning since the US has a tendency to backslide on civil rights, a reality that makes it hard to claim any moral high ground in the international community. Some argue that this focus benefits a very small minority, that LGBT rights are in conflict with “traditional” values, even though it’s a massive demographic that is now often referred to as a “minority”. Others see it as a reflection of deeper societal divisions and the manipulation of cultural issues for political gain. There is a sentiment of “American exceptionalism” at play, but most countries do not adhere to this and see the US differently. The result is that the US gets a reputation as an uncaring nation.
In contrast, many European nations and Canada have been consistently pushing for LGBT rights. This is sometimes encoded in their constitutions as a baseline for acceptance. This is not the case in the US. The EU often makes this a condition of membership, further emphasizing the importance of these values. Brazil, too, has demonstrated a commitment to these rights, even if it faces ongoing challenges. This divergence underscores a clear distinction in values and priorities among nations.
Some may suggest that the stance on LGBT rights is linked to religious beliefs, particularly in the US. Often, this leans on interpretations of religious texts to justify opposition to LGBT rights. But it is important to note that it is used to justify hate, which is already in their hearts. The truth is that the Old Testament’s impact on current views is based on the hatred already in their hearts. However, the Christian dogma that replaces the Jewish law, is supposed to be about love, community, and nonviolent resistance. However, American Christians have decided that one of those things isn’t like the others.
The reality is that the situation comes down to just hate, and it is likely a toxic dose of bully culture, and religion is at most an excuse that doesn’t get challenged enough.
The LGBT community represents a significant portion of society, often estimated at 7-10 percent of the population. It’s not a tiny minority. They are friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, and the people who live around us every day. Protecting their rights is essential. It’s a matter of basic respect and ensuring they have the same opportunities and protections as everyone else.
It is not uncommon for the opposing side to say that the LGBT community wants to erase anyone who isn’t like them. This is a false accusation; all the community wants is to live in peace and to exist. Some also resort to arguing “social fabric,” as if these ideas and people cannot be allowed. It is very shocking and disturbing that this is the case.
The US, in its history, hasn’t always been the leader of human rights, despite the belief of many Americans. Compared to other countries, the US lags behind, especially when you look at how long it took to decriminalize homosexuality. Despite being a colony, Canada was decriminalizing homosexuality as early as the late 1960’s and the early 70’s, while the US was lagging behind. It seems the US is taking steps backward, and it is unsettling. It is important to consider that people who oppose LGBT rights are in the minority.