Opinion: AMA takes rational position on irrational same-sex legislation
By Dominick Delgadillo Staff Writer
The American Medical Association House of Delegates announced its opposition to anti-gay legislation in early November.
The statement published by the association included health risks for homosexuals due to the “Defense of Marriage Act” of 1996, the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy of the U.S. Military, and the recent passing of Proposition 8 in California. The AMA believes the American principles we currently recognize supersede the health and prosperity of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered citizens.
The AMA has every right to voice its opinion on this matter. The statements about the health risks associated with these laws are well within the organization’s scope of knowledge, and its opinion should be recognized as truth by those who are less informed medically.
The “Defense of Marriage Act” states that marriage is defined as the union between one man and one woman. It also declares that no state must recognize a marriage license between same-sex couples issued in any other state.
The AMA believes this contributes to same-sex couples missing out on health benefits like shared insurance policies and spousal social security. It is correct in saying these issues not only complicate financial matters in already troubling situations, but can also add stress and dread to the possibility of future health complications.
The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” military macho motto is as outdated as the thinking used to justify slavery. The policy’s continued use is ridiculous. According to the AMA, DADT can be truly detrimental to the mental and emotional health of gays and lesbians who want to defend their country — a country practically calling them subhuman. “Any law which makes you lie to your doctor is a bad law,” said Dr. David Fassler, a Yale graduate and board-certified psychologist. “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, however, forces gay servicemen and women to lie about their sexual orientation.
In the past, the AMA has been known to look out for doctors’ interests above the public. This move to change legislation that alienates gay and lesbian citizens by not allowing them to serve in the military or get married is a step in the right direction.
Laws against the LGBT people of our country are simply wrong and most certainly impede the quest for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If the idea that these laws are completely unjust and inhumane isn’t enough, hopefully the AMA’s recognition that they are detrimental to one’s health will spark a change for equality.
