HIV Travel Restrictions Lifted for Gay Games

-- Citizenlink.org

Pro-family advocates are asking President Bush to reinstate a federal ban that prohibits HIV-infected travelers from coming to United States. A lobbying campaign succeeded in getting the ban lifted in time for Chicago's 2006 Gay Games.

Homosexuals from around the world will travel to Chicago for the event slated for July 15-22. The official Web site claims 8,000 people have registered.

Gay advocates, with the help of Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, convinced the federal government to waive restrictions on international travel for those with HIV so they could attend the games. Pro-family analysts argue that such a move is counter to the goal of stopping the spread of the disease.

Peter LaBarbera, executive director of the Illinois Family Institute, is calling on the president and Congress to reinstate the ban. He said the people of Chicago should not be subjected to activities that facilitate immoral and reckless behavior.

"Mayor Daley has forgotten his role as 'chief protector' of the people of Chicago," he said. "The public-health goal of stopping the spread of HIV/AIDS must take precedence over the political wants of homosexual advocates."

The Gay Games Web site promotes dangerous sexual activity, LaBarbera said. For example, Steamworks, a gay bathhouse that offers anonymous sex for men, is listed as a business sponsor and under "Parties and Events."

"The evidence is clear: the extracurricular activities surrounding the Gay Games present a real health hazard to those involved and the surrounding community," he said. "Inviting thousands of HIV-infected visitors to a Gay Games celebration that officially promotes promiscuity will only put Chicagoans at risk and help spread HIV."

TAKE ACTION: Please call the White House comment line at 202-456-1111 to register your concern.