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Gay activists are clamoring to change the definition of marriage so that people of the same sex can wed each other. They claim marriage laws are discriminatory because current laws do not allow homosexuals to marry. That is an erroneous claim.
Our country's marriage laws do allow homosexuals to marry--they can marry someone of the opposite sex. This is the same right given to everyone in society. But what if a man is attracted to a male mate and not a female?
Ex-gays know what that is like. Some exchanged "vows" in same-sex ceremonies, and are now living in opposite-sex marriages. How is this possible?
Although homosexuality was removed from the list of psychiatric disorders in 1973, that decision has not stopped all psychologists from studying homosexuality.
Dr. Raymond Fowler, CEO of the American Psychological Association, asserts that reorientation therapy should be made available to those who wish to explore developing heterosexual feelings as part of every client's right to self-determination.
Dr. Robert Spitzer's recent Columbia University study of former homosexuals documented that same-sex attractions may be overcome. Ironically, Dr. Spitzer is the psychiatrist who initiated the removal of homosexuality from the psychiatric diagnostic manual in 1973.
Thousands of Americans have left homosexuality. Many more would deal with unwanted same-sex attractions if professional help were made widely available.
Ex-gay organizations such as the National Association for Research and Therapy of Homosexuality, a scientific organization of medical professionals who practice reorientation therapy, and Jews Offering New Alternatives to Homosexuality can testify to the fact that homosexuality is not genetic or irreversible.
Don't change marriage; provide a chance to change homosexuality.
Regina Griggs
Fort Belvoir
Regina Griggs is executive director of PFOX--Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays & Gays.