This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
In "Exposing kids to gays" (Forum, May 25), Joe Rakes expressed concern that children raised by gay parents are "forced into a lifestyle of homosexuality," which he says is "not normal."
If by "not normal" Rakes means that homosexuality occurs less often than heterosexuality, fair enough. In that case, he should also save children from the scourge of left-handed parents, since this threat occurs about as often.
Alas, Rakes seems to be using a more sinister definition of "not normal." Certainly, he has the right to his opinion, but he is misinformed. Science — the American Psychological Association — has determined that "homosexuality … is a normal and positive variation of human sexual orientation."
Rakes also appears to be unaware of research indicating that "the development, adjustment, and well-being of children with lesbian and gay parents do not differ markedly from that of children with heterosexual parents."
If Rakes bases his opinion on religious dogma, he is entitled to his beliefs. When religion challenges science, however, there is a risk that the latter will prevail. Just as science has proven that the world isn't flat, it has also demonstrated that Rakes is mistaken.
Ken Roach
Salt Lake City