The Axiom Of Respect
Individuals Demonstrate Valid Behavior
By Treating Themselves And Others Respectfully
And Respecting Only Those Who Earn It
"Hundreds of leaders from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community gathered in the East Room of the White House Monday to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the launch of the gay rights movement." ("Obama Works To Address Concerns Among Gay Supporters") In his remarks, President Obama assured the LGBT Community that he and his administration fully understand their position and will continue to champion their rights:
Now this struggle, I don't need to tell you, is incredibly difficult, although I think it's important to consider the extraordinary progress that we have made. There are unjust laws to overturn and unfair practices to stop. And though we've made progress, there are still fellow citizens, perhaps neighbors or even family members and loved ones, who still hold fast to worn arguments and old attitudes; who fail to see your families like their families; and who would deny you the rights that most Americans take for granted. And I know this is painful and I know it can be heartbreaking.
And yet all of you continue, leading by the force of the arguments you make but also by the power of the example that you set in your own lives -- as parents and friends, as PTA members and leaders in the community. And that's important, and I'm glad that so many LGBT families could join us today. For we know that progress depends not only on changing laws but also changing hearts. And that real, transformative change never begins in Washington.
Every American must realize that the people of the LGBT Community are important members of all of our neighborhoods and schools, local governments and volunteer services, churches and synagogues; they, like all Americans, deserve equal rights and treatment. Magna Sententia specifies that we treat all people respectfully, and on this special anniversary, please take the time to remember and reach out to those you love who are in part of the LGBT Community. Let them know how much you appreciate their struggle, and ask how you can be of support.
If you do not know anyone in this Community, visit your local LGBT advocate center and offer to volunteer wherever they need help. When you do, you will meet some of the most kind, compassionate individuals you have ever met, and you will have an increased understanding of the difficulties and discrimination they face. Knowing them personally will help you put yourself in their place, and you will see that they are just people asking to be treated with the same respect afforded to every other member of our society.
We applaud President Obama for his words of support, and it is our hope that all citizens of our country will open their hearts to the LBGT Community.
Anna and Ellie Sherise
Creators of Magna Sententia
Authors of Magna Sententia: The Logical Cure for Our Society