What is Homosexuality Current Controversy Factors/Causes of the Controversy

Legal Matters

Homosexuality is romantic or sexual attraction or behavior between members of the same sex or gender. As a sexual orientation, homosexuality refers:

1. "an enduring pattern of or disposition to experience sexual, affection, or romantic attractions" primarily or exclusively to people of the same sex; 2. "It also refers to an individual's sense of personal and social identity based on those attractions, behaviors expressing them, and membership in a community of others who share them."

Homosexuality is one of the three main categories of sexual orientation, along with bisexuality and heterosexuality. (Bisexuality is sexual behavior or an orientation involving physical or romantic attraction to both males and females, especially with regard to menand women) (Heterosexuality (also hetero, straight) is romantic or sexual attraction or behavior between members of the opposite sex or gender) The most common terms for homosexual people are lesbian for women and gay for men, though gay is also used to refer generally to homosexual men and women.

(Current Controversy with History) Hate Crimes against Homosexuals Since the beginning of time, people have been tortured for characteristics that make up who they are, including beliefs, appearance, and genetic makeup. Following a rise in sexual awareness and a heightened tolerance for varying degrees of sexuality, the number of hate crimes against homosexuals has also increased. In essence, the increase of hate crimes against homosexuals in the 1990s is a trend that must be evaluated and ultimately eradicated in order to preserve the standard of living worldwide.

The rise in crimes against homosexuals could be attributed to :

heightened visibility of the gay community attitude of conservative religious and political leaders
Persecution of homosexuals may occur either via : legislation prohibiting homosexual acts, or by ad hoc intimidation; mobbing; assault or lynching motivated by homophobia (homophobic violence or "gay bashing").

Anti-discrimination Bill in the Philippines

BAYAN MUNA Representative Teodoro Casino filed House Bill 1483 or An Act Defining Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Providing Penalties Therefore. Among the many good features of House Bill 1483 include: 1. ensuring LGBTs get hired without discrimination in all jobs, services and industries with equitable pay, benefits and promotions;

2. making schools a safe and accepting environment for students regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity;
3. providing equal access for LGBTs to enjoy health care, housing, transportation and social services without prejudice; 4. making discrimination against LGBTs an act that can be reported to the government authorities and penalized so that discrimination can be eliminated.