Stop Making an Ass(umption) of Yourself

I am sure that many of you are familiar with the cliché “assumptions makes an ass out of you and me.” Well that is particularly the case when it comes to the idea that lesbianism (homosexuality) is somehow responsible for the rapid growth of HIV and AIDS globally. Of course, this theory is perpetuated through religion and has survived the test of time evidenced by the overwhelming hatred and discrimination that resides in the hearts of many "so-called" authoritative religious dictators. While religion is not the only force in this equation of inequality, it is a major player. The International AIDS Conference in Mexico City (http://www.aids2008.org/) provides a platform to address this blatant injustice. This week long event offers the global world an opportunity to assess its role in awareness, education and tolerance. According to VOA reporter Greg Flakus, public health officials and non-governmental organizations understands that tolerance influences healthier societies. Furthermore, it allows open dialogue between families who are plagued with religious rhetoric, while empowering individuals to remove their veils and come out of the closet. We understand how religion helps perpetuate homophobia globally. Now, the true irony will be how religion saves us from this massive global problem. I remain optimistic, what about you?