The newly revised law in the State of Illinois is interesting, however in view of the fact the wording suggests that it is apparent that the law having to do with sodomy has been repealed. I do not like that word apparently for it gives no definite assurance that such a repeal of the law affecting homosexuals has been brought about. From the point of view of his writer it is to be regretted that prositution has become a crime if it was not a crime already... The reason why this writer feels that way is as follows: Any nan becoming aware that he happens to be a homosexual. in his middle age has little other choice but to patronize the >rostitute unless he may have a position of some importance... That is one point. Another is that the older fellow must be vell enough off to pay a fairly large fee o the male prostitute if he is to avail imself of his services. Those of us who

ive on moderate annuities are not in pos tion to pay such fees except on infre[uent occasions, so what to do about this roblem does not seem to have any sat sfactory answers.

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In regard to the letter of Mr. J. P. of Oregon in the Readers Write column for February, it was interesting to note his

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eaction to attitudes of the Mexican Inians. I would like to know about the leal situation in Mexico... A fellow whom met in a gay bar in Washington, D.C., aid he found quite a few gay fellows in capulco... It might be noted in closing hat I have noted decidedly cool attitudes f both younger and older homosexuals e has met in gay bars... It is to be reretted that us older fellows seem to be esented so very much by our younger brohers in such places in particular and in thers in general.-Mr. J. H. D., Maryland.

DITOR'S REPLY: Latent homosexualty is one of the least explored aspects f psychology and sociology. It is even ifficult to speculate as to its effects on he total personality of the individual afected, much less its cumulative effect 1 society.

Regarding prostitution, wisely or not, "Section 11-14 of the 1961 Code made a substantial change in the prior law of Illinois with respect to prostitution. Formerly, only solicitation in certain speci fied places, or being an "inmate of a house of ill fame" were punishable. However, under Sec. 11-14, performing, of. fering, or agreeing to perform certain sexual acts for money are now directly punishable as the offense of prostitution." However, "Section 11-14, was not intended to apply to sexual acts of a pure ly private, non-commercial nature. Thus, a person who receives favors of presents of a non-monetary kind in return for occasional sexual acts may not be found guilty of prostitution." It should also be noted that "patronizing a prostitute" is also an offense in Illinois, and. this aplies whether it is for "sexual intercourse" of "deviate sexual conduct", and regardless of the gender of the parties concerned.

The age of consent for sexual acts is 18, whether straight or deviate, but such

acts must not be "notorious".

As far as we can ascertain, the law in Mexico is based upon that of Spain, where homosexual acts are not punishable un less they amount to an indecent assault or cause public scandal or offend against public order.

GOOD NEWS

REVIEW EDITOR: I have recently seen some back issues of the Mattachine REVIEW, read a statement of the Society's purpose, and find myself to be in sympathy with the aims of this group. Therefore, I wish to join as a member. Enclosed please find my check for fifteen dollars which, I believe, covers the costs of membership for one year and subscribes my name to the monthly REVIEW. (The Reverend) H. D. S., New York. ·

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REVIEW EDITOR: Enclosed find check

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for $10 to cover cost of year's subscription, and the balance to be applied towards the cause". Been a subscriber The police officer's guide to the new for a couple years now, and look forward linois criminal code should clarify your to each issue. Told our friends about your oubts as to the intent of the law: "Secwork and all are interested... -Mr. D. K., ions 11-2 and 11-3 of the 1961 Code Code Florida. ade a basic change in the law of IlliDis.... deviate sexual conduct between onsenting adults formerly called the crime against nature" -(is) no longer 1) criminal (offense) in Illinois. Persons ho engage in such conduct publicly, how ver, may be guilty of either public inde ency or disorderly conduct."

REVIEW EDITOR: Enclosed please find a postal money order for the sum of fifteen dollars as payment for a subscribing membership in your Society.

I approve of your aims with all my heart. My only regret in joining is that I have 'not done so in the past... Mr. R. L. S., California.

mattachine REVIEW

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