January 21, 2012Dear Sir,As a Bermudian living in Boston surrounded by millions of people from all walks of life, I would like to comment on the recent article you published concerning the lack of protection of the rights of Gays and Lesbians in Bermuda. In reference to adding sexual orientation to the human rights list I read this response from Minister Glenn Blakeney: “Mr Blakeney said his Ministry is trying to find a way of amending the Human Rights Act ‘in the context of Bermuda”“I almost choked when I saw it. How utterly and incredibly ridiculous a notion that there should be some sort of “Bermuda context” when it comes to discrimination. Discrimination isn’t something that comes in a variety of flavours that you can pick or choose to enjoy like it’s some sort of ice cream.I happen to have some close friends who are a Lesbian couple that have conceived and raised a young man who at the age of 13 is one of the most well-rounded, balanced and enjoyable young person to be around. His parents have done a superb job in raising him to be an outstanding young citizen and made many sacrifices to make sure he has been able to spend a lot of time with his grandfather in order to give him a male fatherly influence. The fact that his grandfather is one of those most incredible people who happens to possess a scratch handicap in golf, be a concert trained pianist and vocalist, renowned photographer and all around Mr Wonderful has certainly rubbed off on the young lad.I also saw a recent article online that has studies showing that Gay and Lesbian people make the best parents which I’d like to share. I do not doubt it. The article is here: http://news.yahoo.com/why-gay-parents-may-best-parents-131902676.htmlIn fact I would go further and suggest that the friends and families who spend time with and support the Gay & Lesbian families also must be top of the line parents as well. Exposing your children to people who may be different in any way, shape or form and letting them make their own minds up as to who they wish to accept into their lives without putting things in some sort of preconceived “context” for them first, is paramount in allowing them to grow into wholesome human beings.Furthermore I think Bermuda as a whole could learn a thing or two from these studies as to just what it takes to raise a child and maybe discover something to help become even better parents. There must be thousands of Gay & Lesbian Bermudians living on the Island and likely many of our guest workers. Even among our elected policymakers. How can we in any way whatsoever believe that Bermudians have the right to think we can discuss anything some sort of “Bermuda context” when it comes to such an important issue. We would be hypocrites of the absolute worst sort.DEREK AG JONESBoston, Massachusetts