EDITORIAL

The occasion of One's sixth Annual Midwinter Institute describes the new approach of twentieth-century homosexuals toward their age-old problem. All over the world today, homosexual men and women are gathering together to organize and discuss-to familiarize the general public and themselves alike with this subject of which a few years ago people knew practically nothing or else viewed with shame or disgust. As a result, opinions concerning homosexuality are changing with lightning speed. Questions that used to be sedulously hidden in dark corners are now brought out into the light of day for healthy discussion. Everywhere the old edifices of taboo are cracking and tumbling down.

And although the old anti-homosexual policy scored many a victory because of a lack of critical, scientific, and well-organized opposition, the new general movement toward sexual reform is breaking down old and outworn conventions and groups of liberally minded people have joined together to form societies for the study of sexual problems. Due homage must be paid to early organizations and individuals who pioneered, and who did not hesitate to devote their full time nor all their means to the task. The World League for Sexual Reform upon a Scientific Basis, founded in Berlin by Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld was one such organization. By 1932 the World League had conducted 5 international congresses which were attended by experts and laymen from all parts of the globe.

Meetings today are conducted by Der Kreis of Switzerland, and the ICSE of Belgium to mention only two in Europe. The ICSE which holds its world congress every two years, is meeting in 1958 at the International Exposition in Brussels, May 23 to 27. The subject of inquiry will be “Science and Homosexuality Today.” In this country, the Mattachine Society and One Inc. convene annually although at different times of the year. Their organized actions are constantly bringing about increased liberalization.

It is encouraging to watch these healthy discussions taking place everywhere by homosexual groups who are determined to free themselves from the hideous bondage of conventional sexual morality. The whole history of reform, and sexual reform in particular is illustrated by just such efforts.

Don Slater

Managing Editor

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