Tag Archives: acceptance

Here is a relevant article that was recently posted in the New York Times. According to the article, Muslim men are more at risk for HIV and AIDS than ever before. Men are increasingly engaging in unsafe sex with other men. The reason for the lack of protection is due to homophobia and religious intolerance, since having gay sex can get you jailed or executed. Therefore, these men feel that they have to hide their homosexuality, especially from their wives. Male prostitution is also on the rise, which can help account for the rapid spread of diseases. These men are also infecting their wives just because of these cultural norms and religious taboos. This relates to the article we recently read that addressed homophobia and conservative view points. According to them, homosexuality in itself will lead to a shorter lifespan. Having gay sex was also considered one of the biggest sins one could commit, because there is no hope of having a child through it. The fact is though, that this fear and homophobia alone are what is causing these men to live shorter lives due to HIV.  If these men lives in a more accepting culture, then this risk would very much be minimized. While the United States isn’t the most gay friendly country, I think most people can at least agree that if it’s going to take place, the men should be careful and wear condoms.  I truly do feel sorry for these men, because they can never come out of the closet and must always live a lie, or face punishment.