Posted by
Tom L. on Thursday, January 15, 2009 7:00:00 AM
Are all heterosexual men sexual predators who will rape a woman given the opportunity?
Most people, I hope, would answer “No”.
Are all homosexual men sexual predators who will rape a man given the opportunity?
While people might be more unaware of homosexual men’s behavior, the answer is again “No”.
You could change the gender in all these questions and get the same answers.
Is the typical/average heterosexual man serving in the armed forces (granted at times under extreme stress) likely to rape a female member of the armed forces?
While rape in the military probably happens more than the military acknowledges, again the answer is “No”.
Is the typical/average homosexual man serving in the armed forces likely to rape a male member of the armed forces?
Short answer, “No”.
Is the typical/average heterosexual man serving in the armed forces likely to approach a female member of the armed forces hoping it leads to a relationship and perhaps consensual sex.
Yes.
So what is the problem with the typical/average homosexual man serving in the armed forces approaching a male member of the armed forces hoping it leads to a relationship and perhaps consensual sex?
First, bigotry against homosexual men.
Second, if the man approached is heterosexual, he will probably be extremely uncomfortable with the approach. Heterosexual men do not have a woman’s lifetime of experience in deflecting unwanted advances. Thus, the heterosexual man does not know how to respond.
If a person in the military, male or female, straight or gay, forces/pushes a relationship with a male or female, straight or gay, beyond the point where the second person wishes it to go, the first person should be dealt with according to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
The sexual orientation of the aggressor should have no bearing.