A Response to Senator Enzi's LGBT Comment

The job of a public servant, especially that of a representative and senator is to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States and to protect us from all enemies foreign and domestic. What many forget is that part of this constitution and this country is: We the People.

The LGBT population is increasing and it is important to remember that the LGBT community is part of our nation – the melting pot that makes us so great. The importance of protecting people from harm is at everyone’s interest. Our officials are elected to help create ideas to be put forth that better the people of our nation. However, words can often lead to actions that simulate what was said.

The words that Wyoming Senator Enzi voiced, about improving the LGBT community are words that demonstrate the lack of knowledge Senator Enzi has of the LGBT community. In fact, his words demonstrate a typical stereotype that looms among the community. During a visit to a Wyoming high school, Senator Enzi had the following to say, “I know a guy that wears a tutu and goes to the bars on Friday night and is always surprised that he gets in fights. Well, he kind of asks for it a little bit. That’s the way he winds up with that kind of problem.”

This statement shows the incredible lack of respect that the Senator has for the LGBT community. Especially during a visit to a high school – it is understood the future lies in the hands of those who continue to graduate. Students tend to remember words that are spoken by top officials and these words that were spoken will ring for years to come.

Though Sen. Enzi has since apologized for his choice of words, we must understand that the lack of knowledge about the LGBT community is still alive and well.

As a gay Republican, I understand the void of understanding on the right – as I shake my head all too often. I believe officials such as Senator Enzi have a great opportunity to learn from the diverse cultures we have, especially in Wyoming. As elected officials, the obligation of listening and learning from their constituents is crucial in how the future of our state will be.

Today, I call on our members of congress – Republican and Democrat, gay and straight, white and black, members of every group to recognize the fact that without a diverse melting pot such as our own, our country will not succeed like it has in the past. We must set aside our prejudice and work together to include everyone and ensure that our melting pot continues to succeed.