Denver Post sports writer Benjamin Hochman (Denver Post file)
Re: “Gays deserve respect of all,” Dec. 28 Benjamin Hochman column.
We write to commend Benjamin Hochman for his excellent column. As parents of a son who came out several years ago, we appreciate such an important column about the need for all people to be respectful regarding sexual orientation and gender identity. The domain of athletics and sports has been a very homophobic environment since the Golden Age of Greece. Fortunately, attitudes are finally beginning to change.
Over some 30 years, as active members of PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays), we have tried to offer support, education and advocacy. During this time, many PFLAG families, and society in general, have become increasingly positive regarding LGBT issues and concerns.
As Hochman so convincingly points out, each individual needs to take responsibility in his or her life, to be respectful of others. In this way, we can all make a positive difference in LGBT lives, and in the lives of the rest of us as well. This New Year is a great time to start.
Jean and James Genasci, Highlands Ranch
This letter was published in the Jan. 9 edition.I agree with the headline on Benjamin Hochman’s column, but little else from his pontificating. Gays deserve respect just like any other person. They do not deserve all the special rights and pedestal raising so many demand at every turn.
A person’s sexuality is not relevant in every conversation. Football player Michael Sam seems to be a nice guy, but a mediocre talent in the highly competitive NFL. He saved no lives and cured no disease. From his comments, even Sam would rather be known as a starting NFL player than a gay man who made it to the NFL for a short time.
I have a suggestion for Hochman to counter his labeling society as intolerant. I will continue to hold no disrespect for gay people, as does most of society, if he agrees to write about sports. I would like to go five minutes in 2015 without hearing that someone’s homosexuality is reason for me to be in awe. Itap time the media stop equating choosing not to attend a gay pride parade with persecuting homosexuals.
Matthew Hayes, Greenwood Village
This letter was published in the Jan. 9 edition.
