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13 quit diversity committee after lesbian speaker canceled

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By NANCY HICKS / Lincoln Journal Star

Saturday, May 05, 2007 - 10:16:10 pm CDT

Diversity committees for Health and Human Services can celebrate food from around the world.

They can bring in Polynesian dancers for a program on Pacific Rim and Asian cultures.

They can talk about Mardi Gras, black history and the Chinese New Year.

Story Photo
Chris Peterson, chief administrative officer for Health and Human Services

But they cannot provide any information that relates to people who are gay.

In fact, state HHS leaders recently ordered a Lincoln-based diversity committee to remove one speaker from an informational forum focusing on family diversity because the woman was in a same-sex partnership.

Forum speakers included a grandmother raising her grandchildren, blind parents and a foster parent — and a parent whose family included three races, adopted foster care children from a previous marriage, a special needs child and same sex parenting.

The team was told to remove the speaker involved in same-sex parenting from the lineup, even though the agency policy statement says the team should promote and encourage the appreciation of human diversity in the workplace and communities served by HHS, said Cathy Kingery, diversity committee co-chairwoman.

The forum was neither condoning nor condemning gay life but simply recognizing its existence and the special circumstances families may encounter, Kingery said in an e-mail description of the issue.

The administration was unwilling to waiver, she said.

HHS administrators say the diversity team strayed from agency guidelines that limit diversity issues to groups protected under federal law.

They include race, religion, national origin, gender and handicaps, but not sexual orientation, said HHS spokeswoman Kathie Osterman.

“All of our programs are tied to state or federal law. This is no different,” she said.

But Kingery said the committee, which serves employees in central administration in Lincoln, didn’t  know about that guideline. The mission statement and goals for diversity committees are broad — to recognize and value all individuals, she said.

She said committee members were aware that previous diversity committees had been told they couldn’t discuss same-sex issues, but they had seen nothing in writing.

Concerned they were being asked to discriminate when their goal was to recognize and encourage appreciation of diversity, 11 of 18 committee members, including the two co-chairmen, resigned, she said.

After reporters began inquiring on Friday about the guidelines limiting diversity issues, HHS system CEO Chris Peterson said she wanted to meet with committee members.

Peterson said she didn’t know if she would lift the restrictions, but she wants to talk with them about what they see as the role of the diversity committees.  

“I’m open to their expectations, to see if that fits in with our diversity policy,” she said.

Kingery said she and others would be happy to talk with Peterson, and she might be willing to rejoin the group if members had the right to discuss any diversity issue.

“But I’m not willing to just give lip service to diversity. We can’t blatantly discriminate against one group of people just because the administration doesn’t want us to acknowledge they exist.”

In answer to questions, Peterson said the guideline was not established to avoid political controversy but to provide a way of managing programs. She also said the agency does not discriminate against employees because they are gay,

The guideline, established in 2002, about the same time the HHS system was formed, applies to 16 diversity teams operating in HHS workplaces across the state, she said.

The committees, made up of volunteer employees and started in 1995, “have done wonderful programs and really enhanced employees’ understanding of different issues,” Osterman said.

HHS also has a long-standing administrative memorandum that says the agency won’t place children with unrelated, unmarried adults. It was put into place in 1995 by then-Gov. Ben Nelson.

Reach Nancy Hicks at 473-7250 or nhicks@journalstar.com.


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WEAK wrote on May 5, 2007 4:18 pm:
" OPEN UP THE GATES!!! Let her talk. Should you ever want to equate Lesianism with White Supremicists is pretty far fetched. However, just because someone wants to talk doesn't mean folks have to show up and listen. Talk about a bunch of fooey. "

 Sheila wrote on May 5, 2007 4:20 pm:
" I would like to know how one compares KKK to Gay persons? I am a mother of 6 and grandmother to 9! Yes I am a Lesbian. This is just why we need people like Beth Gillespie speaking out, ignorance breeds hatred and many misconceptions. The KKK goes after groups of people out of HATE...the GLBT community does not do this. We are your teachers, lawysers, mailmen, cashiers, Doctors, Nurses...we serve this community in every way that Heterosexuals do. We have families as you go, we have educations and partcipate in the community is every positice way...and no we do not prey on Children. We just happen to "love" differently. Not hiding in LINCOLN. "

 umm, wrote on May 5, 2007 4:24 pm:
" Beyond the obvious absurdity of not recognizing lesbians and gays as "cultures," if this is a state agency why is it bound by federal classes? Further, if the concern of Peterson and others is to open doors to unsavory groups, certainly many groups professing to be "religions" could waltz right through that door under the current federal categories. Bogus excuses, shameful lack to tolerance and sensitivity. Congratulations and thanks to those 13 committee members who resigned rather than quietly let this pass. Nebraska, you're a sad mess. "

 KMM wrote on May 5, 2007 4:27 pm:
" “We followed the federal protected classes. Sexual orientation is not a federally protected class,” Well thank you Chris Peterson for not exceeding the listed classes. Thank goodness there were 13 others who were not as closeminded. "

 d wrote on May 5, 2007 4:35 pm:
" Uh-oh. Here we go... "

 wow wrote on May 5, 2007 4:47 pm:
" Truly amazing. "

 Justin wrote on May 5, 2007 5:41 pm:
" Did the chief administrative officer for Health and Human Services for the state of Nebraska just say that he believes homosexuality and racial bigotry to somehow be of the same class or kind? Simply pathetic. "

 Luke Peterson wrote on May 5, 2007 6:07 pm:
" This is blatant homophobia and no one else can call it otherwise! I am outraged, angered, upset and troubled that such an action was committed! As apart of the gay community in Nebraska, I hope this serves as a wake up call to my peers who are complacent because we can not simply sit idly by and expect things to change with out our initative cause it WON'T happen! We must confront such acts and treat them for what they are, acts of hate! Best way to combat that is to educate everyone about the truth and truth is sexual orientation deserves every right to be a protected federal protected class and there is nothing to be ashamed about being a homosexual. When will people realize that we are your family, friends, relatives, co-workers, neighbors, employers, and even possibly your spouse?! This is a reality, this does happen and most importantly being gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender will never go away no matter how much a person or group morally objects to homosexuality. Jesus taught about loving unconditionally for all, why do we as his follows not abide by his teachings?! "

 Okie wrote on May 5, 2007 6:27 pm:
" I believe "someone" caved to the right-wing. "

 m wrote on May 5, 2007 6:35 pm:
" and we wonder why people move out of this bigoted state. "

 Pollencruncher wrote on May 5, 2007 6:45 pm:
" This is to be expected from a HHS state leadership that can not look over the horizon. Closed minds are a terrible thing to place in "leadership " positions. But it is HHS and they have a long history of doing the wrong thing. I expect to have the Governor step up and create a study committee to see if there is a problem. If it walks like a duck, quacks and has feathers it is a duck.Some body needs to take a walk. "

 Former Nebraskan wrote on May 5, 2007 6:49 pm:
" Backwards views like this will only keep Nebraska from flurishing and expanding in the rich diversity our world has to offer. These attitudes hold Nebraska and states like it behind other progressive states that not only accept, but embrace these indifferences in our society. "

 sick of NE ignorance wrote on May 5, 2007 6:56 pm:
" So HHS is equating gays & lesbians with white supremacists??? This is not about "federally protected classes" but simply more prejudice against gays/lesbians, which is not a lifestyle choice but purely genetic. Gender IS a part of cultural diversity and ignorant people need to be educated about it. This state is so ridiculously naive. Petersen said she is "more than willing" to have a discussion about whether sexual orientation should be a proper topic for the diversity committee. It should be a topic of discussion for everyone! "

 tcan wrote on May 5, 2007 7:16 pm:
" how forward-thinking and socially sensitive of the hhs administration to feel the need to define exactly what does and does not constitute "diversity" in our community. "

 Taxpayer wrote on May 5, 2007 7:30 pm:
" Please tell me none of my tax dollars are involved here, please?! "

 hmm wrote on May 5, 2007 8:30 pm:
" Way to go HHS! Although an unpopular decision, it was the right one. Like they stated, it is a governmental diversity program. Sorry to inform you, but the government doesn't recognize the homosexual lifestyle as a protected class. Therefore a committee that is supposed to focus on the protected classes - should do jsut that. Like they said, if they start to go astray from those strict guidelines, it could open pandoras box - and when and how do you shut it? Better not to open that can of worms! "

 taxpayer II wrote on May 5, 2007 9:05 pm:
" look at the backgrounds of the majority of HHS' top administration and the Governor with their ties to Catholic Charities - no more explanation needed for lots of their decisions "

 Former HHS manager wrote on May 5, 2007 9:13 pm:
" Way to go czar Peterson...amazing to me how the most incompetent and clueless continue to rise to the top at HHS. I had hopes the Gov could actually appoint someone who was competent at HHS with the reorganization - but, no, just more of the same risk-adverse, CYA leadership that has been there since the abomination known as the Policy Cabinet was in place. It is why I left, and I have to say, since I left, every single HHS headline has made me grateful I did. For all that is good in this world - someone figure out Chris Peterson HAS TO GO... "

 PB&J wrote on May 5, 2007 9:19 pm:
" This is ridiculous and embarassing. I can't wait until this story makes national headlines. "

 and you wonder? wrote on May 5, 2007 9:21 pm:
" And people blame the brain drain and lack of new businesses on taxes?? There are high taxes in many places, but people pay them gladly because they really want to live there. Not so Nebraska. As one who did leave the state, would never return, and hopes remaining family members will soon make the escape they're dreaming of, it's this type of stupidity that serves as a reminder of why I'm so glad I left. Really, it's to the point where the narrow-minded and hateful right is so dominant in the region that it feels asphyxiating, and leaving the state you realize how wonderful it is to breathe free again. All I can say to those of you still in the state is leave if at all possible. Don't bother hanging around to try to change the place -- it won't. Life's too short. Get out while you can and enjoy it. "

 Andrew Bargen wrote on May 5, 2007 9:45 pm:
" I'm not sure that Ms. Peterson could have come across as any more bigoted or ignorant by analogizing gay couples to white supremacists. I cannot believe that my tax dollars pay this dolt's salary. A complete and total embarrassment to her profession. "

 Hmm wrote on May 5, 2007 10:01 pm:
" One in ten..... "

 willie wrote on May 5, 2007 10:35 pm:
" Oh Lincoln! And HHS. And Nebraskans. I'm so proud of you to step up and follow Biloxi, Little Rock and the other ignorant cities of the 1950's. Do NOT bother to get educated but stay protected from the world. Just you, your bible, your church and your family will show the entire country what your morals mean to all of us. Do I smell Putlitzer Prize in the old Journal Star ??? "

 Dave K wrote on May 5, 2007 10:36 pm:
" All that happened here is the law was followed. Does the law need to be changed? Yeah. But if the law says no speakers in same-sex partnerships, you follow the law. This is what we do in our society -- follow the law. If you don't like the law, change it. But while it's the law, you follow it. "

 carmelo wrote on May 5, 2007 10:43 pm:
" I received the gist of this story in an e-mail on Friday. I hoped that it was false. My friends slowly trickle out of state. Whenever I meet anyone new who is smart and educated, I wonder how long it is until they move too. This state is so completely depressing. If I can just sell my house, I want to be gone. Blue skies ahead. "

 Yeah wrote on May 5, 2007 10:58 pm:
" Golly, the only sensible comment is "and you wonder?" I left once too and its truly amazing what a different and kind world there is beyond Nebraska's borders. I had to come back to rescue the elders from taxation. They wished they had left years ago too. It's almost unbelievable how Nebraskans treat people. But I guess thsts why the state has the unfriendly image you hear from people across the nation. And after 50 years, it ain't gonna change. "

 Gerard Harbison wrote on May 5, 2007 11:11 pm:
" Maybe we should just eliminate foolishness like 'diversity committees'? Seriously, why are tax dollars being used to bring in Polynesian dancers and speakers to tell people about Mardi Gras? "

 Joe S wrote on May 5, 2007 11:36 pm:
" This is America....remember? We are permitted to have choices and to express them...personally, I think the diversity committee made the right decision, and that is my story and I am sticking to it! "

 whatever wrote on May 6, 2007 12:48 am:
" Diversity and multiculturalism leads to more bigotry and hatred. It is a morally and ethically bankrupt policy. "

 Barb B. wrote on May 6, 2007 5:53 am:
" Gosh, maybe the next time HHS will decide that any speakers with blue eyes can't be included in a program. After all, people with blue eyes are not a specifically protected class either. Perhaps HHS needs a little more reorganization. "

 nitemare wrote on May 6, 2007 7:36 am:
" Let's see... If I remember correctly, it was "Adam and Eve", NOT "Adam and Steve". Nature just doesn't work that way. The "Go forth and multiply..." staement becomes null and void with the gays. Absolutely NOT what God and Mother Nature intended!! "

 whatever wrote on May 6, 2007 7:48 am:
" I generally have problems with this who "diversity" thing, to me it's just a road to more intolerance, just a different kind. But "and you wonder" really hit the nail on the head when you talk about Nebraska's brain drain and some of the reasons people leave this state. There needs to be a little fresh air and some creative thinking in this state and a lot of tolerance on ALL sides of the fences. "

 Ralph Thomas wrote on May 6, 2007 8:39 am:
" Someone said something about "following the law." I wonder who in their correct mind would do something like that? Jon Bruning? Georgie "the chimp" Bush? Cheney? Heineyman? With these "moral compasses" to lead the masses of sheep-like republicans, how can anyone wonder why they do the ignorant, and illegal things they do? "

 Jas wrote on May 6, 2007 8:43 am:
" Multiculturalism, Diversity, the Homosexual "Lifestyle, Forward Thinking, Socially Sensitive - I believe that most of the commentors here would agree that all of these catch phrases better describe Boulder, CO than Lincoln, NE. That must be why Nebraskans are treated so well when they visit Boulder for sporting events - that pillar of multiculturalism and tolerance. "

 Lost wrote on May 6, 2007 9:24 am:
" I must have missed something. I have reread the article three times and I am not able to find the part where it mentions the KKK or White Supremacists that the HHS is comparing Gays too. "

 notnewstome wrote on May 6, 2007 9:59 am:
" this policy that peterson refers to is held to all programs and grants in hhs state OR federal. any conference planning committee must have all speakers googled by communications dept to be sure there is no reference to gays or lesbians. all speakers must support abstinence only and have never spoke out on sex. in nebraska hhs and the catholic church are partners and have decided to here in this state. we are all abstinent until marriage and we only marry people of the opposite sex. AND we only have sex when trying to procreate. just ask hhs about their STD, HIV/AIDs or family planning programs, they can't tell you much if anything. i bet hineman, peterson and the rest all can tell you everything about the little bit of abstinence money that this state gets. diversity means alot of things but not within the scope of HHS, the CEO peterson, or the Governor of this state. Just a point of reference I'm neither gay nor lesbian. "

 Ben Thar wrote on May 6, 2007 10:55 am:
" Who cares? We all bend over backward to please this group of different people, or that group of different people, and for what. We dare not mention God in school or public. We dare not dicipline our children, we dare not speak out when same sex people want to adopt children. Any wonder why our young people are confused, the prisons are overflowing, 1/2 or our marriages end in devorce, and drugs over run the country. Without rules and morals chaos ensues, and guess where we are now in this country. If you are different be different, but do not try to justify your lifestyle or push it off as normal to those of us who are. Just understand you are different, don't flount it, you cheapen yourself and emarass those who don't ever intend to change. Live your life without being militant it does no one any good. "

 Bill wrote on May 6, 2007 11:22 am:
" Is anyone really surprised? Petersen was appointed by Heineman, who is one of the biggest homophobes and bigot in the state. "

 true love of neighbor wrote on May 6, 2007 12:39 pm:
" (1) We will know that we've truly gained ground on the whole diversity issue as soon as we stop going out of our way to "celebrate" it and make it an issue. Learning about differences is great, I'm all for it. But government programs legislating and taxpayer dollars funding it...no thanks. (2) The whole "Jesus loved unconditionally" and "throw the first stone" arguments get so old. Jesus said that not one jot or tiddle will be removed from the law. Love and forgiveness for repentant sinners - absolutely. Welcome into the church - I sure hope so. Announce the attoning work of Jesus Christ sins of THE WHOLE WORLD - Amen. This is the love that Jesus speaks of. If you're going to minimize sin and rework "offensive" portions of Holy Scripture that don't seem to apply in this "progressive age, then please don't put words in Jesus' mouth. "

 Agree with Ben Thar wrote on May 6, 2007 12:50 pm:
" There are lots more important issues to be paying an instructor to speak about than gayness. I'm sorry, but quit making an issue out of being gay. If it IS so very "normal" for gay people to have kids, then why on this EARTH so we need a special seminar to tell us about them? Stop talking out of both sides of your mouth. First you want to be the same and then you want to be different and teach me about how I am supposed to treat you. Stop it all. Live and let live and just be normal. People will begin to treat you normal when you stop trying to differentiate yourself from the norm. Fit in with your families like everyone else and just BE QUIET ABOUT IT PLEASE!!! I don't need to be taught how to be nice to you, any more than I do any other families I am around. If being a gay parent is OK and normal, then there is absolutely no need to teach a course about you. "

 Annoyed in Nebraska wrote on May 6, 2007 12:52 pm:
" when will this city and state learn that we are not going to stand for this kind of intolerance. We are everywhere in schools, in the government and in families. We have the same values and beliefs that eeveryone els has and yet we are looked down upon because of who we love. Jesus taught to love eveyone and treat others hw you would want to be treated. The right wing needs to take these two teachings to heart and follow them. before too long karma will back around to hurt them. "

 Drop this nonsense! wrote on May 6, 2007 1:50 pm:
" The same-sex is not the norm. I am not discriminating anyone but I have a problem how people can be with the same-sex and this issue keeps coming up. How can people think that we humans should just allow same-sex to happen? People are not raise to be this way. This issue just needs to resolve before things just get worse. "

 Good Job wrote on May 6, 2007 2:22 pm:
" Thank you Chris Peterson! You have the courage to stand up to the homosexual lobby and agenda and I hope you continue to do so. Please don't let the small minority dissuade you from keeping our tax dollars out of promoting homosexual lifestyles. "

 Jane wrote on May 6, 2007 3:22 pm:
" I would even encourage the agency to consider recognizing all humans, simply as a basic human right. Ms. Peterson does not set the standard as to what humans can be recognized (much as she might want to believe). Although the law is probably on her side, allowing discriminations of many types, Ms. Peterson is couching her bigotry, and her justification of it, in law. Hitler did that, while he contended to be a really nice guy, on a personal level. He was only trying to clean up the society, right? "

 Oh Please wrote on May 6, 2007 3:43 pm:
" To NITEMARE. Your comment about God making Adam/Eve, not Adam/Steve is pathetic and lame. YOU, have NO IDEA what God intended. He made everyone equal, no better, no worse, just equal and all different. Your logic has no basis. In using your logic, I should then believe that God doesn't want adoption for couples who can't conceive, and in no way wants couples to have ANY kind of fertility help. I mean come on, if God wants couples to have children, He would bless them children, right? So in your logic, people who adopt and use fertility to get pregnant, are sinners and freaks of nature like homosexuals. See, your thoughts are entirely pathetic. Stop using the Bible and your interpretation of what God wants to discriminate. "

 Jane, Lincoln wrote on May 6, 2007 3:43 pm:
" See Ms Peterson's interview with KETV Channel 7 Omaha at http://www.ketv.com/news/13261814/detail.html She expresses dicusses concern about recognizing gays, neo-nazi's and KKK because they are not considered protected classes by the federal government. "

 HHSS worker wrote on May 6, 2007 3:57 pm:
" The previous references to Ms Peterson making to the KKK and neo-Nazis is from an interview airing on Channel 7, KETV, on Friday night. She said that if the Team was to recognize gays they would also have to give equal time to these other groups as well. Nice comparison, Chris. "

 Sue P. wrote on May 6, 2007 4:45 pm:
" It is so embarassing to live in Nebraska sometimes. How can we have a discussion on how to help our citizens live better lives when we ignore a sector of it. Bosnian refugees aren't a federally protected class either yet we want to do what is important to make them feel welcome in our community. How hateful of the HHS director to compare a group of our citizens with people who used to lynch and murder. "

 Josh Bourgeois wrote on May 6, 2007 5:08 pm:
" To everyone who calls us "those people," and to anyone who thinks we're subnormal, I just wanted to apologize. I'm sorry that I'm gay. It really shouldn't be up to me whom I'm attracted to. While I'm at it, I should probably apologize for all of the other reasons I'm outside of the range of normalcy. First, I'm left-handed. I don't know what I was thinking there. I'm also a Republican. That isn't really a minority, but throw in the gayness and yeah. I'm sorry for being Christian. We say America's a Christian nation, but really with all of the subtypes and the people who don't actually worship God, every Christian is part of their own minority. I'm sorry for my 135 IQ. Being ahead of the bell curve should always be discouraged. I'm sorry I write in complete sentences. I'm sorry I check my spelling before I post messages on comment boards. I'm sorry I don't necessarily laugh just because someone gets hit in the crotch on TV... or YouTube. I'm sorry I own an iMac, I'm sorry I don't own an iPod, I'm sorry I prefer hamburger to steak, I'm sorry that I can name all fifty states... I'm not sorry that I don't pay attention to world events, no normal teenager does that. So I'm sorry, normal people, I really am. Maybe some day we can all live in the society envisioned in Mike Judge's "Idiocracy," but until then, I'll just have to apologize for being different. "

 Gene Hogan wrote on May 6, 2007 5:31 pm:
" Hopefully everyone that wrote comments here will follow them up with letters to Chris Peterson and your state legislators. "

 tcan wrote on May 6, 2007 6:01 pm:
" This isn't an issue of whether homosexuality is morally right or wrong, and shouldn't be up for debate in the comments following this article. This is an issue of a Health and Human Services committee devoted to enhancing everyone's understanding of colleagues and clients who are different from the alleged "norm." People who work in health and human services are held to a higher social standard, and it is vital that they are able to approach ANY human being in a calm and professional manner. That means having the basic prepardness to work with a black man, a Sudanese woman, a single mother, an obese coworker, a migrant worker, a transgendered teenager, a child molester, or a member of the ku klux klan. Simply because some of these groups are not explicitly protected by law does not mean they are not part of our society and can be ignored or treated differently by those who provide services to them. "

 Steve wrote on May 6, 2007 6:41 pm:
" Sounds like they could use this story as a plotline for the t.v. show "The Office." Oh wait, they already did. And it was funny because it was so unbelievably stereotyped and wrong. Too bad... "

 JPS wrote on May 6, 2007 8:09 pm:
" Gov Dave H. is anti-gay/lesbian you say? Gosh...if I had known that I would have voted for him! News flash... Nebraska is survive, grow and do just fine without gays/lesbians, thank you and good night dreamers! "

 another hhss employee wrote on May 6, 2007 10:23 pm:
" Non-white children, and children with special needs, in Nebraska, are less likely to find foster homes and adoptive families than others. They are more frequently ridiculed by others for being "different", and grow up to experience less opportunity than average. I want to be among the many Nebraskans to thank these parents for opening their hearts and homes to these kids. I hope you are able to speak loudly and clearly about the richness the children have brought to your lives. Any spiritual community surely values your gifts of sharing protection, resources, and of course, respect. As a fiscal conservative, I applaud your willingness to help children find a home, which also happens to save our state thousands of dollars per child per year. I like efficiency, but never at the expense of a child--we should support your kindness in every way we can, by raising taxes if necessary to help other families; I know your budget is tighter for having opened your home to four children. To this family, thank you. To the administration, please wake up. You're in the newspaper again, for being ridiculously short sighted and self centered. Maybe YOU could learn something from this family. "

 Dan wrote on May 7, 2007 9:24 am:
" New ideas and great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. "

 T wrote on May 7, 2007 9:36 am:
" God did mean Adam and Eve for a reason. It takes a man and a women to populate this world. There is no other way around it. As for poeple who aren't able to have children and opt to adopt. God blesses them in this fashion. There are kids that need adopted. If these people were able to have children on their own, they probably wouldn't seek to adopt. Duh! When our time ends here on this earth, we will get the answers to our questions that we don't know, but we all should know that marriage is for man and woman. And please don't mention the divorce rates with heterosexual people. You homosexuals break up just like the legal marriages. Many of you claim to be common-law partners and then later you're with someone else. I guess this would be your form of divorce. And to OH PLEASE...pick up the Holy Bible and read it throroughly and see if you find anywhere that homosexuality is A OK. GO STRAIGHT. "

 SRO wrote on May 7, 2007 10:23 am:
" To JPS - NO, Nebraska wouldn't survive and grow and do just fine without the GLBT community.... There are many, MANY people in Nebraska that are still closeted because of people like you. Should they leave, Nebraska would lose a LOT of very productive people in our society. "

 tdm wrote on May 7, 2007 11:52 am:
" Do any of you even know what a protected class is? Chris Peterson has a unique idea on what it means. Protected class refers to a category of people that are protected from harassment and discrimination by mandate of the law, federal, state, or local. This can be through black letter law, as in the case of the Civil Rights Act, or through court decisions. Homosexuals are not considered a protected class, according to federal law. This does not preclude a state or locality from granting this status to gays. Some jurisdictions recognize homosexuality as a protected class. Nebraska does not. However, even though a group of people are not considered a protected class, it does not mean that they do not enjoy the individual freedoms of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness that every U.S. citizen lays claim to by way of our own Declaration of Independence. This panel was about family diversity, not the right to discriminate against any one group of people. Suppose that, at the behest of our predominantly Christian state leaders, a Jewish speaker was told that his/her family values were not relevant to a discussion about family diversity? Should it matter that religion is a protected class? The topic of family diversity derives from the HHS wanting to promote diversity in the community and workplace. Apparently, a community can only be diverse if it is made up of protected classes of people. Neat little categories all lined up in an orderly fashion, “You’re okay because the federal government recognizes that you have been historically discriminated against and harassed. Welcome to our federally protected, feel-good diversity session!” This, from Health and Human Services, the state agency where health only pertains to the wellbeing of its political leaders and humans are only those fitting the description coming out of the Bible. Carry this over to the policy of not placing children with unmarried, unrelated adults. By this logic, loving parents are only made up of two adults of different sexes. Caring and affection can only be administered by a man and woman who have a marriage certificate. There is the rub, caring and affection. HHS and the moral ruling elite are terrified by the idea that a child raised in a household by gay or unmarried parents grows up to be gay and unmarried, i.e. a sexual deviant. Better to place a child with an abusive yet straight relative than with a compassionate and dedicated, yet unwed and/or gay, care giver. "

 Nina wrote on May 7, 2007 12:29 pm:
" I am heartened that the majority of the committee resigned - this follows that the majority of Nebraskans must feel welcoming to all. I've read of condemning homosexuality in the Bible, but I've also read many more times there about loving our neighbor as ourselves, and spreading God's love for all, as well as about not judging others, and tending to our own faults before we tackle someone else's. And as for Mother Nature, any livestock farmer can tell you there are "gay" cows and pigs. Something interesting to ponder, as they are his creation, too. "

 Obviously not Ben anywhere wrote on May 7, 2007 12:35 pm:
" Or you'd know that all the evils you state such as divorce rates and crime are far LOWER in more secular states such as in Northern Europe. If you want to tie religion into antisocial behavior then a) you're mistaken as to the causality involved and b) if you weren't it would look BAD for religion, as societies seem to improve when religiosity declines. "

 You're NOT discriminating wrote on May 7, 2007 12:38 pm:
" ...but you think humans should stop "allowing" this "same sex". Sure. That's not discrimination at all. You just don;t think gays should be allowed to exist? Could you define what "discriminating" means on your planet please? "

 ignorant wrote on May 7, 2007 12:54 pm:
" Allowing HHS to say that they did not allow the speaker to talk because gays aren't a federally protected culture is ridiculous and ignorant. What would have happened had you let the gal talk? Nothing, absolutely nothing would have happened besides educating people about the homosexual lifestyle. Nice cop out HHS. "

 Karen wrote on May 7, 2007 1:07 pm:
" Why does this NOT surprise me? When I lived in NE, I heard the "we only do what the law dictates" excuse time and time again. People, companies, organizations, and even government offices who truly want life to improve for all people need to go above and beyond what is minimally required the law and be more humanitarian. Kudos and thanks to the 13 individuals who had the courage to stand up and speak out. Keep up the good work! "

 John wrote on May 7, 2007 1:32 pm:
" If you are not in favor of Federal mandates then you need to get involved with the political process starting with writing your representatives in Washington. It is useless trying to make changes at this level when the state employees are bound by Federal laws. Everyone who is upset about this should get together and sign a letter and send it to Washington. Set yourselves apart from the complacent complainers and do something. "

 citizen from a civilized state wrote on May 7, 2007 1:33 pm:
" Peterson should go. "

 peb wrote on May 7, 2007 1:59 pm:
" You can bet stacks of letters will arriving at Mr. Heinemann's desk, Ms. Peterson's desk. Every day the GLBT community is busy at Nebraska's Capital Building, in Washington D.C. on Capital Hill to work on getting themselves the rights that all other citizens have. "

 About time wrote on May 7, 2007 2:07 pm:
" It's about time someone has the courage to do the right thing. Thank you Chris Peterson. Keep up the good work. Being gay or lesbian is a sexual preference and has nothing to do with diversity. "

 Beth Gillespie wrote on May 7, 2007 2:16 pm:
" I have been sitting here, staring at a blank screen for some time, considering what to include, in my first ever blog. Reactionary statements come to mind. 1) I would like to meet the left-handed Josh someday. 2) Although I sincerely affirm every individual’s right to hold their own faith and opinions closely in their heart, please retire the ‘Adam and Steve’ thing. We get that ‘Steve’ rhymes with ‘Eve’, but it really is tired. 3)Lumping individuals who love differently with individuals who hate, such as the KKK or Nazi’s (in the channel 7 broadcast) really was an unfortunate choice, anything of value the HHS CEO may have said will be negated because of it. What a way to be remembered. 4) The 13 who resigned their spots on the diversity panel to defend my right to be just as human as the next person? Bravo. These are my reactionary statements, and I suppose they should be more angry or caustic, because I am the woman, who was state sanctioned-dis-involvemed in the family diversity forum. I am the one you are all writing in reaction to. But I just don’t feel angry or caustic. Sad, perhaps, and a little disappointed, and definitely not surprised. Whenever something like this happens, it provides a wonderful opportunity for discussion, and sometimes, even, for growth and learning. I understand the point of view of the more orthodox religious community out there. I get it and I support their right to have it and to absolutely believe that is the truth. For them, and they would say for everyone, that is the Truth, and that’s cool. But this is no longer just a Christian community we are living in. The world is filled with a myriad of different faiths and beliefs and Lincoln is representational of that. From my childhood, even before my sexuality became a factor in my life, I followed a faith that allowed for that particular difference. A lot of faiths do. Which one is right or wrong? We will know when we all go to meet our creator, I suppose. In the meantime, regardless of what religion we follow, or don’t follow, or what our personal bigotry or bias allows for or prohibits, we live in a civic community, not a religious one. Our laws, even our unwritten ones, are designed to serve and protect us regardless of how they originated and regardless of who we are intrinsically, even if you are a KKK member or a Nazi (just not if you are gay). I know Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual and Transgender individuals are not protected classes of people. However, minority race is a protected class, individuals with disabilities are protected, and foster kids, even former ones are of special interest to HHS. All of my partner’s and my children are of minority ethnicity. One of our children has special needs, two were adopted. And, see THIS is what makes me sad and disappointed; although the reality of the world we live in is sometimes unfortunate, I am a grown-up. I can handle it. But what the HHS CEO’s mandate, of my removal from the panel, said to me is that because my partner and I are not a protected class-no matter what that class is, our children do not matter. The opportunity existed to ask me not to mention my relationship. Probably wouldn’t have been a big deal. I was going there to talk about parenting a group of diverse kids, and not much of anything else, really, but the diversity board was not given that option by their CEO. Because I am a Lesbian, my entire family and it’s experience had to be negated. Because my partner is of my gender, all the coping skills, teaching methods and anecdotes that intertwine and inter weave themselves around such a diverse group of children, had no value, and therefore, the children themselves have no value, and that infuriates me more than I can express. The irony? HHS is THE agency entrusted with caring for children, entrusted in making sure that EVERY child has value. I hope someday that citizens of our community share the same rights and privileges and protections their neighbors do simply because they are citizens OF the community. But even if that never happens, I hope that the government in place at the time when all of ‘our’ children or ‘your’ children have needs, even if it is just the need to have their experiences heard in a diversity panel, is a kind one, because the one in place now seems very comfortable discounting and negating the importance of children based upon ‘the sins of their fathers’ or in this case, mothers, and when a state agency, entrusted with the care of our children, would feel so comfortable discounting them? That is a sad state of affairs. Beth Gillespie "

 thank you wrote on May 7, 2007 2:28 pm:
" As an ex-Nebraskan now living in Oregon, I occasionally take a peak at the issues facing my former hometown by browsing through the LJS. Thank you for reminding me that I never want to move back. The ignorance, hate, and 1950's mentality of the majority of the state is shameful. "

 Oh NOOOO wrote on May 7, 2007 2:55 pm:
" What if the gay woman touched me? Then would I catch the gay? Would I start liking guys, or would I still like girls because I'm a boy? Thank all the stars that they banned the gay woman from talking to the straight people, because every one of them could have caught gay and then it would spread even more. One day we might all be gay and then where would we be? We'd have great clothes and our houses would be decorated nicely, but we'd never procreate ever again and that would be the end of civilization. I have successfully avoided catching gay my whole life, but sometimes I've been afraid of not knowing when someone was gay, and I'm pretty sure I talked to a gay man once and I didn't catch it (just lucky I guess), and there was another time when a gay person was in the next car (I saw the rainbow sticker and KNEW) and I rolled up my windows so I didn't catch gay from her, too. It's a crazy world, and you have to protect yourself from the gay. The State of Nebraska is just ahead of the curve. We're so lucky to have them. And yes, I’m being just a smidge sarcastic. "

 CSS wrote on May 7, 2007 3:00 pm:
" Words can't describe how ridiculous and inexcusable this is. Absolutely a travesty, yet somehow hilarious in the oxymoronic way that a diversity committee would bar a gay speaker at one of their events. The cognitive dissonance in this state is unbelievable, and really is why the rest of the country continues to, and always will, laugh at us. "The Good Life," indeed, if you are white, straight and carrying a bible, that is. "

 Dee wrote on May 7, 2007 3:10 pm:
" Mathew 7:3 Hypocrite, first take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly how to remove the splinter from your brother's eye. "

 Rys wrote on May 7, 2007 3:27 pm:
" I hate whoever came up with that tired old line "God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve." If I hear it one more time, I think I'm gonna go nuts. "

 Bravo wrote on May 7, 2007 3:51 pm:
" Thank you, Ms. Gillespie, for your dedication to your children. In a world where we constantly hear about children being abused, neglected, and murdered by their own parents, thank God for people like Ms. Gillespie, and her partner, who show unconditional love for their children. These women, who so many in Nebraska are quick to codemn,opened their homes and their hearts to children that needed them. I don't know what God you believe in, but the God I know teaches love, understanding and giving. And that is exactly what Ms. Gillespie is providing for, and teach to, her children. Thank you. "

 Not just in Nebraska wrote on May 7, 2007 4:44 pm:
" How can you people say that it is just "Nebraska" people who discriminate against you? It is everywhere you go, not just Nebraska. No matter where you live, discrimination will always be there. "

 Ex Diversity Tem Member wrote on May 7, 2007 4:47 pm:
" Is this serendipity or what? First of all, Beth, well said. Second, and this is amazing; the Omaha HHS Diversity Team was also planning a program to include same-sex issues at the same time Lincoln was planning their program. Omaha was told to can the program. I have heard 10 members have already resigned inclusing the Chair. Will someone please listen? It's time to join the world, Nebraska. "

 Luke Peterson wrote on May 7, 2007 4:49 pm:
" Beth Gillespie...you are my new found hero! Your words moved me so much, I am awe-struck. "

 Cheri Marti wrote on May 7, 2007 5:18 pm:
" I do hope that some people pick up on the fact that we do, in fact, have a state statute that protects individuals, regardless of sexual orientation. It's 28-111 and is commonly known as "hate crime" legislation or the enhanced penalty statute. The reason being, because we've come to recognize that discrimination against gays occurs to the extreme... in acts of violence. My suspicion is our political talking heads went scrambling when searching for a reason to exclude somebody who was doing an incredible job of raising an amazing family (yes, I know first hand) and the federally protected excuse seemed viable. The reality is, they probably don't realize their loss. This was a golden opportunity to get some extraordinary insight from some incredible individuals who work, teach, pay bills and struggle, celebrate, struggle, offer a LOT to our city in ways they don't even know (ie, just raising a good deal of funding for domestic violence programs) and yes, are dedicated parents which was really the topic at hand! This is incredibly distressing that our state officials are so committed to ostracizing a whole community of tax paying individuals who have so much to offer. :( "

 Now More Tolerant wrote on May 7, 2007 5:37 pm:
" I used to be a big homophobe and although I'm not completely "there" I'm working on being more accepting of this lifestyle. I do find that this story is sad. Homosexuality is becoming an acceptable part of our society more and more, like it or not. This speaker probably had some very enlightening things to say. Some perspective into the life that she lives that could help even one person understand. Was she/he going to be doing something inappropriate on stage? I suspect not, she/he is just a person like everyone else who has made some different choices in their life or was born this way, whatever you choose to believe. It's sad that so many close-minded people are preventing them from sharing their experience with others. "

 Jack wrote on May 7, 2007 5:47 pm:
" Fear is what this is about. Instead of these idiots thinking about sex, why can't they think about love, family, relationships and caring? Because they don't know love, and they're afraid that I love my partner more than they love their spouse. Who hired this group of bigots? "

 John wrote on May 7, 2007 6:37 pm:
" Way To Go Lincoln! Didn't we fight a war about taxation without representation? Don't same sex couples pay taxes just like everyone else? How Dare You HHS! "

 keller wrote on May 7, 2007 6:38 pm:
" Chris Peterson is a political appointee, not a financial or human resource manager, not a health professional, not even well informed about the organization she heads. No one but a politician would hire such an unseasoned individual to supervise a company with the size and impact of HHSS. She's another good example of why the number of political appointees should be reduced. "

 Jason wrote on May 7, 2007 6:48 pm:
" By nature, I'm retalitory. First, it's not a sexual preference. I don't prefer to be gay as much as a black man prefers to be black. If I had a preference, I wish I was straight so I wouldn't have to deal with the bull that comes with be different. Second, I live a normal life. I work, I eat, I sleep. I try to be normal, but the law says I'm not. When/If I find my lifelong love, I just want to enjoy that experience like everyone else. I want to be normal, but until things change, what can I do? Statistics mean nothing. It's not about how many gays are out there, it doesn't matter how many straight marriages end in divorce. I've known gays from straight households and straights for gay households. I know gay people in politics, law, teaching, mechanics, construction, and a couple hair stylists. Why can't everyone just get along? NOW, to the issue at hand. Beth has dedicated her life to take care of her kids, JUST LIKE ANY OTHER MOTHER WOULD. The discussion was about diverse families and diversity within the family. If her family isn't diverse I have no idea what definition HHS is using, regardless of sexual orientation. It's a shame that a family that met every component of diversity (race, adoption, special needs, etc) is shut down because of one extra "unacceptable" diverse feature of their family that based on love. I'm optimistic that one day this whole conversation will be mute, but who knows when that'll be. "

 "Jimmy" wrote on May 7, 2007 10:02 pm:
" Ok, I'm gay. I didn't choose it. I worked hard to not be that way. I have learned to accept it, not like it. It means my church will reject me, my family probably will come around, but not for a long while. Families won't trust me with their kids, because they confuse being gay with attracted to kids, which I'm not. I have slowly learned to accept this as a reality, because that's what it is, real. I am not proud of it. Maybe that'll develop some day. Somehow I would expect that health people would be able to accept it too. I don't expect anybody to like it. But, it's real. Probably I won't sign my real name any time soon. At least, not in Nebraska. "

 appalled wrote on May 7, 2007 10:07 pm:
" "...but to provide a way of managing programs." Tied to state or federal...no matter how you dress up discrimination, it is still not right. It is not about good management. It is not about being consistent with federal or state laws. The federal & state laws discriminate. HHS is renowned for perpetuating hardship & segregation. They even will spend 100's of thousands of dollars to defend not serving who they are suppose tio be serving. There is no law saying "you can't". There is no law that says humanity, reasoning, & justice must be wrung out of the HHS system. If HHS had any courage, it would step up to the plate, be a leader in doing all the right things that promote the health & acceptance of all. This is a classic example of what's wrong with being a code agency - under the rule of the governor. The election is every 4 years, so it's rule by re-election fiat rather than serving all the people. Ben Nelson or whoever put in the rule, it's still a disservice. Nebraskans,why do we keep letting this happen? HHS must be held accountable to do right by all people. Forget the dogma of the supposed base. Do your job as advocates for those you serve, including more money so real human beings aren't left without their needs being met. Just by being born, everyone has a right to respect, to be heard, to have shelter, etc etc etc. Look to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It transcends partisanship & dogma. So should HHS. It's the American way. Family values. Especially for families that aren't like yours. "

 Schoolteacher? wrote on May 7, 2007 10:11 pm:
" This woman was taught to work with children? Whoa. I'm glad she didn't stick with that profession. "

 Jane wrote on May 7, 2007 10:19 pm:
" If 5-10% of the population is gay, there would have to be 300-700 of HHSS employees who are probably gay or lesbian, or transgender, or something that hhss doesn't like, right? So there must be gay doctors, and police and judges, lawyers and so