Sexual orientation often defines the direction of one's sexual interest. Obviously, gay men often engage in sex with other gay men. Yet, I am fully aware of Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) and other similar organizations. Thus, it would be unjust to correlate orientation with sexual behavior at all times. Any reported statement to the contrary was taken out of context. I, however, relate my sexual orientation with my behavior. That defines my identity. Others have similar experiences, some do not.
Yesterday's editorial ("Red Cross policy not discriminatory") stated "Gay men who do not have sex with other men are eligible to donate blood." In other words, "It's O.K. to be gay -- if you're celibate." Love the sinner, hate the sin. I am a healthy, HIV negative male. I view the FDA-mandated Red Cross policy with contempt because it is flawed and embodies various contradictions. It punishes healthy, HIV negative gay and bisexual men (and women having sex with bisexual men) for the "greater good" while straight men engaging in unsafe anal sex with multiple female partners would remain eligible. Which type of behavior is riskier for the donor pool? Meanwhile, a 2001 poll conducted by the Advocate, a gay news magazine, found that 31 percent of gay men surveyed admitted that they had lied to the Red Cross about their sexual history in order to donate blood. In the end, however, the blood is still tested extensively.
The Red Cross, via the FDA, should adopt a new policy which encourages potential donors to be more upfront about their sexual histories -- LGBT or not.
Meanwhile, the current blood drive policy is incompatible with Tufts' nondiscrimination policy. The Leonard Carmichael Society, operating with the student activities fee that I pay, sponsors the drive in University facilities. This is unacceptable. If Tufts is committed to equal opportunity, it will not sacrifice any of its students for a "greater good," no matter what it is. Therefore, LCS should muster the extra effort to coordinate a successful blood drive in the future -- off-campus.
Matthew Pohl
LA '05
