NBJC Commentary on Mark Foley

23 Oct 06 12:00 AM CDT

Foley Scandal:

Abuse of Power and Lack of Personal Responsibility

The recent Mark Foley scandal is an example of the abuse of power and the lack of personal responsibility which surrounds it. Foley’s behavior was highly inappropriate and he should be punished under the fullest extent of the law.

However it is important that Americans remember that the Mark Foley scandal really has nothing to do with sexual orientation or the fact that Foley himself is a gay American. Instead this is a classic case of sexual harassment.

This is an instance where a person sitting in a position of power exercised unwanted and inappropriate advances towards a subordinate or an employee. When the label “gay” is removed from the mix, what remain are misuse and the abuse of power.

Although conservative groups would label Foley’s behavior as being typical of gay people, one should not look at the disgraced Foley and make the assumption or the conclusion that the entire gay community is obsessed with underage youth. We must remember that Mark Foley represents only himself and cannot be used as the face of homosexuality any more than Pres. Bill Clinton can be used as the face of heterosexuality.

Starting now Americans must become more aware of the brilliant work being done by The Stonewall Democrats, Log Cabin Republicans, and the Victory Fund; three organizations dedicated to bringing to the political forefront the many issues which impact the gay community.

There are an estimated 228 openly gay men and women who hold publicly elected office across this country according to the Victory Fund. It would be a travesty to bring under suspicion the work these men and women have dedicated to their country based solely upon the indiscretions of one man. They deserve better than this and so does the rest of America.

Herndon Davis

Director of Communications

National Black Justice Coalition