“This AGM supports the Campaign for Homosexual Equality, the Scottish Minorities Group and the Northern Ireland Gay Rights Association, in their efforts to obtain equality at law between homosexuals and heterosexuals.”
“Humanists have contributed to the movement in favour of more liberal ideas about sex, including the recognition of the rights of homosexuals and lesbians – not merely their rights, but how they should be respected as others are.”
“Too many religions regard human sexuality as a bad feature – one barely to be tolerated, then only in a very highly defined and prescribed manner. But it is an enormously important characteristic of human beings, which finds many different kinds of expression. To say that we know only one is ‘right’ shows a degree of intolerance which I find most objectionable.”
“This AGM reaffirms its support for the rights of lesbians and gay men. It deplores the hostility directed against them, particularly from religious sources and the tabloid press. It calls on the Humanist Movement and individuals to do everything possible to counter such hostility and to promote lesbian and gay rights as human rights.”
“The fear and hatred of lesbians and gay men, known as homophobia, is totally irrational. It is a social evil akin to racism and (as the Nazi experience has shown) can have the same evil consequences. It harms both the victimised individuals and the society which tolerates it.”
“Unfortunately in this country, we have inherited from our Christian forebears views on sexual matters that are riddled with guilt. Such attitudes have caused much unhappiness and suffering. The way couples express their sexuality is surely a matter for them alone, so long as they act with mutual love and consideration.”
“What is the Humanist attitude to homosexuality? Unlike most religions (including mainstream Christianity, Orthodox Judaism and Islam) which condemn gay sex in line with the teaching in their ancient ‘holy’ books, modern Humanism recognises that same-sex attraction is a fact of life and that the way in which individuals express their sexuality is a matter for them alone, provided they are not harming or exploiting others.”