Anchorage Daily News, November 29, 1999
P. O. Box 149001, Anchorage, AK, 99514-9001
(Fax 907-258-2157 ) (E-MAIL: letters@pop.adn.com )
( http://www.adn.com/ )

Letter: Rejection of gay youths tragic

It is unfortunate that the students of Grace Christian School have learned the lessons of bigotry and intolerance well. Apparently, the lessons Jesus taught - "Let he who is without sin cast the first stone" or "Judge not, lest ye be judged" - have been neglected.

Young gay and lesbian students have a high rate of suicide, as much as one-third of teen suicides. This can often be traced to rejection of the young person's sexuality by family members, peers, church and community.

Rejection of a gay child is tragic and unnecessary. For parents and others who are struggling with issues of homosexuality in their families, I recommend an organization called Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. The local chapter has many resources to help. Our phone number is 566-1813. Or visit our web site: http://www.alaska.net/~identity/pflag.htm.

- Jane Schlittler, president, PFLAG/Anchorage

Return to P.E.R.S.O.N. Project Home Page