Families Minister Glenn Blakeney’s proposal to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation was a hot topic in the House of Assembly last week.The Royal Gazette took to the streets, interested to find out whether residents supported or were against the move.The Equality Act would prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation and age factors not currently covered by the Human Rights Act.A 42-year-old man who didn’t want to give his name, said he didn’t think homosexuals’ rights should be protected.The man, who claimed to be an Anglican, attributed his reasoning to “religious and scientific beliefs”.“Do what you want, but don’t come near me and mine with those intentions,” he said in describing his general attitude toward homosexuality.Violet Johnston had similar feelings. “I just don’t think it’s right,” said the 78-year-old who worships at the First Church of God on North Shore.Sierra, 21, also said that she did not support the proposal.“Personally, I feel [homosexuality] is just not right. It is against God’s will.”However, there were many who expressed their support of the Equality Act and its protection of homosexuals’ rights.Said one woman who described herself as a housewife: “All humans are equal, regardless of sexual preference. Bermuda needs to move into the 21st century.”Hafid James also felt the Equality Act was important.Said the 26-year-old: “Of course gays deserve human rights, they’re humans!”Nick, 23, said that “everyone has the right to make their own choices”.Cherlyn Swan, a 58-year-old who claimed ties to the AME church, said she “doesn’t mind” whether or not homosexuals’ rights are protected.Meanwhile Krystal McKenzie, 33, said: “Although I disagree with the act [of homosexuality] I believe that it is a right.”A 22-year-old man, who asked not to be named said he agreed with the proposal. “Homosexuals are human beings. It is an issue that they [in the House of Assembly] are skirting around.”