I have the solution to the “problem” of gays in the military: Soldiers who are not afraid of guns, bombs, capture, torture, or death say they are afraid of homosexuals. Clearly, we should not be used as soldiers; we should be used as weapons. – Robert Patrick, Los Angeles, California, letter to the editor, The Advocate, 199

In itself, homosexuality is as limiting as heterosexuality: the ideal should be to be capable of loving a woman or a man; either, a human being, without feeling fear, restraint, or obligation. – Simone de Beauvoir (1908–1986)

If gay and lesbian people are given civil rights, then everyone will want them! – Author unknown, as seen on a button at EvolveFISH.com, c.1998

If you fall in love with a boy, you fall in love with a boy. The fact that Americans consider it a disease says more about them than it does about homosexuality. – James Baldwin, “Disturber of the Peace,” interview with Eve Auchincloss and Nanc