final blog # 10

When I started to think about the social issues that are important to me, one specific one always seems to come to mind: gay rights. It is quite sad to me that we have only come this far in the fight for equal gay rights. The gay rights movement seems so similar to the civil rights movement that African Americans as well as all citizens fought for so diligently in the 60s. It is shocking in today's ever-progressive society that we are still so behind on our equal rights for all citizens. I firmly support the cause of gay rights and the cause for all citizens to be seen as equals in the law. One prominent organization for gay rights is the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Foundation, which is the oldest Gay and Lesbian task force in the United States. Since its beginning in 1973, the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force has been fighting for equality and justice by building political power through advocacy, training, and spreading forward-thinking throughout America. The Task Force runs the Policy Institute, which conducts social research and policy analysis for the benefit of the gay community. It also runs a training and organizing department which promotes new leaders and assists communities. In addition, the Task Force has the only department in an LGBT organization that is working to leverage federal resources to support the health and human service of those in the LGBT community. The Task Force has multiple headquarters all over the United States and is one of the leading non-profit organizations in the Gay movement. The Task Force is working diligently to help the LGBT community be treated as equals on campuses, in churches, as well as in the office. The Task Force is working to fight HIV/AIDs within the gay community as well as reduce the rate of hate crimes against gays. I like that the Gay & Lesbian Task Force is actively fighting for their rights through policy-making as well as working through federal legislation to make a difference. It shows forward-thinking even beyond this generation. In high school, I was a member of the LGBT student alliance and I hope to continue working to promote this great cause throughout the remainder of my adulthood. Through my studies in film and culture, I hope to show a more positive light ont he LGBT community and promote their cause!