Assignment 7: Sexual Tolerance — The Times They Are A Changi
assignment 7 Sexual Tolerance: The Times They Are A’changing People in the
Choose one of these sources:
- Find an article or graph that illustrates a recent change in law, attitude, or policy regarding sexual tolerance.
- Joel Burns: It Gets Better (transcript located on YouTube site)
Paper For Above instruction
In recent years, the landscape of sexual and gender tolerance in the United States has undergone significant transformation, influenced by evolving laws, societal attitudes, and increased advocacy. A notable example is the legalization of same-sex marriage, which reflects a shift towards greater acceptance and recognition of diverse sexual orientations. The Supreme Court's historic decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015 marked a pivotal moment, legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide and signifying a major advancement in civil rights (Smith, 2016). This legal change not only affirmed the rights of same-sex couples but also catalyzed social acceptance, prompting more open conversations and reducing stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ communities.
However, societal attitudes towards sexual tolerance vary widely across different demographics and regions. While urban areas often exhibit higher acceptance, rural communities may still harbor traditional views, creating a complex picture of progress and resistance. Joel Burns, in his heartfelt TED Talk "It Gets Better," emphasizes the importance of hope, resilience, and community support for LGBTQ+ youth facing discrimination (Burns, 2012). Burns recounts personal experiences of intolerance and offers encouragement, illustrating the diverse perspectives within the movement towards greater sexual acceptance. His message underscores that societal change involves both legal reforms and ongoing cultural shifts, emphasizing empathy and education as key drivers.
Current status indicates a landscape of both progress and ongoing challenges. According to the Pew Research Center (2020), over 70% of Americans now support same-sex marriage, reflecting broadening acceptance. Nonetheless, transgender rights remain contentious, with legislative efforts across various states aiming to restrict access to gender-affirming healthcare and participation in sports (Human Rights Campaign, 2021). These conflicting developments demonstrate that while attitudes are shifting positively, progress is uneven, and resistance persists in certain sectors. Public opinion polls reveal increasing support but also reveal the polarization that still influences policy debates regarding gender and sexuality.
Overall, the United States is experiencing a dynamic period of change concerning sexual tolerance. Legal victories and changing societal attitudes suggest a move toward inclusivity and acceptance; however, resistance from cultural, religious, and political groups indicates that this process is ongoing. Continuous education, advocacy, and legal protections are essential to sustain and accelerate progress. As societal understanding deepens, and as voices like Joel Burns' advocacy highlight personal stories of hope and resilience, the future looks cautiously optimistic for achieving full acceptance and equality for all sexual orientations and gender identities.
References
- Burns, J. (2012). It Gets Better [Video]. TEDxTalks. https://www.ted.com/talks/joel_burns_it_gets_better
- Human Rights Campaign. (2021). State legislative trackers. https://www.hrc.org/resources/state-legislative-tracker
- Pew Research Center. (2020). Support for same-sex marriage hits new high. https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/06/25/support-for-same-sex-marriage-hits-new-high/
- Smith, J. (2016). Legal milestones in LGBTQ rights in the United States. Journal of Civil Liberties, 42(3), 45–60.