Web site Evaluation - Part V

The thing I have been most concerned about in evaluating Web sites for my research project is the fact that my topic tends to either be supported (pro-LGBT rights) or opposed (anti-LGBT rights). I think I've made a concerted effort to present the material on a global level, but it doesn't negate the fact that it's hard for me to compare clashing issues with the same unbiased standards I would use had I chosen a different topic. I think my stance on issues of human rights and civil rights is quite clear. I bring all of who I am to the table, and this includes my identity as a sexual minority and as an activist.

For this last set of Web site evaluations, I am going to leave my various identities at the door for two main reasons: 1) I will admit that I do not know much about the issues and I try to stay out of other people's conversations when it is discussed, and 2) it is a really touchy topic for some people because it is extremely personal. With that being said, the topic is: religion and LGBT people of faith. I will present the following Web sites as a demonstration of extreme opposites and will let the reader click on the links to find out more information.

The point of this post is to demonstrate how positive or negative messages sent out by Web sites can greatly impact whether or not sexual minorities use religion as one of the tools to create an identity and connect as a community.

The Good

Metropolitan Community Churches, founded by Rev. Troy Perry in 1968, is "the world's first church group with a primary, positive ministry to gays, lesbians, bisexual, and transgender persons." Over the past 36 years, the church has grown dramatically and expanded into 22 countries. The main focus of the church is provide a place for worship and guidance for LGBT communities and to spread the world-wide message of love and acceptance.

"The Bible has brought comfort, hope, healing, and redemption to many people in so many places... Sadly, it has also (and too often) been used as a weapon to inflict pain and cause separation. Don't be fooled by false arguments. Read some of the insights offered here and decide for yourself what this enduring book of wisdom has to say about you and God, and love and life."

The Bad

The Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas, was establish by Fred Phelps in the mid-1950s and is considered an "Old School Baptist Church." Fred Phelps is also the founder and creator of the God Hates Fags Web site.

"The WBC engages in daily peaceful sidewalk demonstrations opposing the homosexual lifestyle of soul-damning, nation-destroying filth. We display large, colorful signs containing Bible words and sentiments, including: GOD HATES FAGS, FAGS HATE GOD, AIDS CURES FAGS, THANK GOD FOR AIDS, FAGS BURN IN HELL, GOD IS NOT MOCKED, FAGS ARE NATURE FREAKS, GOD GAVE FAGS UP, NO SPECIAL LAWS FOR FAGS, FAGS DOOM NATIONS, etc."