EDITORIAL

After all the investigation and discussion of the matter in recent years, no thinking homosexual can any longer maintain that he need not take seriously, nor concern himself in the progress of the one subject most important to his very life. The responsibility of economic obligations belongs to all of us. Yet fear ridden homosexuals, especially those in prominent positions, who will think nothing of spending their money freely in gay bars and at parties or for a new sex outlet, still feel that they have no obligation. These irresponsible homosexuals merely pay lip service to the idea of an open attitude on sex, while they actually foster prudery and old-fashioned superstitious abhorrence concerning themselves. Strange, that at the same time these individuals fear their Jekyll-and-Hyde existence-part of the time posing as normal and part of the time moving among their homosexual friends-they will not put up one penny to lighten the veil of secrecy with which they shroud themselves and because of which society looks upon us all as degenerate personalities, moral pariahs, pansies, seducers of the young, and little better than criminals or worse.

Thus it is that each and every reader of this magazine should frequently ask himself, what am I doing to help the homosexual cause? Everyone needs to be inquiring into the ways of continued and increased support.

Unfortunately, the task of collecting support for any purpose, even the worthwhile ones, is a frustrating and discouraging undertaking. Invariably only a fraction of any group's membership can be aroused to willing cooperation. Also, invariably, the burden of perpetuation falls on the shoulders of a few, a fraction, of the total numbers while the rest "free-load" as it were, enjoying the fruits of others' efforts.

However, not everyone has to become a full-time professional fighter in the battle. It is understandable that not many of our number are willing to risk the perils of being considered professionals in the homosexual movement, when we know that in fact the majority are involved in elaborate measures to escape detection. Yet there are many things that this legion number can do to strengthen the position of all plus assure continued progress and provide a financial "cushion" to allow for many other things that need to be done. All of the things that need to be done cost money. Yet the safest and most passive contribution any homosexual can make is in giving money. Money means that new research can be made, reports written, newer arguments set forth for everyone to sharpen his wits on, ministers interviewed, lawyers consulted, encouragement made to the faint-hearted, answers to the disturbed, angered and distressed. Through these works the homosexual will gain true freedom.

By this process every reader of ONE can put his lofty ideals into practice even though he may not be ready or willing to endure long hours of drudgery. It can be done by literally putting your two cents in with the rest of us who are already working and carrying the load. Don Slater. Editor

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