Homophobia Vs Racism

In this paper, I will be discussing the nature of the relationship between homophobia and racism. I will take the position that they are both largely and essentially the same, although there are some differences. In defense of my position, I will examine both concepts in light of religious beliefs, cultural influences and moral considerations, illustrating how both concepts are similar, yet unique in relevant ways.

The first argument based on homophobia and racism, in support of religious beliefs, considers the fact that some have very strict beliefs, especially those that grew up in a group of religious people who saw homosexuals as sinners due to the fact that they had same sex preferences, therefore not being able to reproduce. Some even discriminate against those who are of different skin colour than the majority. For example, a lesbian and her partner were both raised in the Roman Catholic Church, but they were unable to get married due to the fact that they are homosexuals. One could object to the position in which I am taking by arguing that, you should not want to be a part of something that does not believe in the same things as you. The problem with this objection is the fact that, these people may still have the same religious beliefs, but the congregation does not support their decisions or equality. Another objection that could be raised is that most religions will still allow new or different people to attend their ceremonies; they just may not be able to participate in the same events, unless they truly believe in the same things. However, this objection is problematic as well because although people may not verbally discriminate against those who are new or different, body language and excluding them from activities makes them feel alienated and victimized.

My second supporting argument relates to cultural upbringing. For example, a sixty year old man grew up in a small town, where the majority of the population was Caucasian, in a society much different than todays, in a family where he was constantly hearing and repeating racial slurs. This may have influenced the way he thought of those with darker skin tones, although there was no discrimination against anyone who was white, whether they be gay or straight. One could object to the argument in which I just made by responding, saying that everyone has a right to feel a specific way about certain people, and they have the freedom to make their own choices regardless of what they grew up believing in. The problem with this objection is the fact that we are influenced by others, regardless of what some may think, especially as children by family and friends, which could cause some to discriminate against one group and not another. Another objection that could be raised is that homophobia is identical to racism; this man cannot be racist but not homophobic. However, this objection is problematic as well because discriminating against people based on their skin tone