This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
I just finished watching the movie "Philadelphia" with Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington (again). A white gay man with AIDS is fired from his job at a prestigious law firm not just because of his disease, but mostly because he is gay. He is represented by a black lawyer, who has to come to terms with his own bigotry and fear towards gay people.
This movie should be required viewing by our state legislators (and let's add Gayle Ruzicka, since she also makes policy and laws). Utah is not upholding the spirit of what this country is really about, but it is basing policy on ignorance, fear and bigotry. They also should be required to attend gay gathering so they may come to meet wonderful, talented, and loving people who really are no different from them. They love and have families and children. They give to the community. They pay taxes. They are great friends and neighbors. If you are so threatened, contemplate the reason why.
Susan Wolfer
Salt Lake City