Montanans Surveyed on Gay Rights

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By Alden Downing

Story Published: Jun 12, 2008 at 9:39 PM MST

Story Updated: Jun 16, 2008 at 10:23 AM MST

HELENA - Gay rights activists are calling on legislators to respond to and reflect what they have found to be the ideals of Montana voters.

In a survey of 600 likely voters in the state, the Montana Human Rights Network found the majority of Montanans favor protecting gays and lesbians from discrimination and passing legislation to do so.

"We really need to launch an educational effort so that people understand they're not alone in these kinds of feelings," explained Montana Human Rights Network Executive Director and State Senator Christine Kaufmann.

"When they accept and understand that employment discrimination is wrong no matter who it's directed at, that hate crimes are wrong no matter who it's directed at."

While survey results show support for numerous gay and lesbian rights, the numbers also show that the majority of Montanans weigh religious and political views more heavily than issues facing the gay community.

Friday, Jun 20 at 9:47 AM Jim Bob wrote ...

BS! Montanan's voted OVERWHELMINGLY to outlaw same-sex marriage. I would bet the 600 "random" people surveyed all live in Missoula.

Friday, Jun 13 at 11:39 PM SteveMD2 wrote ...

Kcollector: These people represent about 5% of our population, which means 15 million Americans. You should recognize that you have common cause with them re discrimination. They are your ally if you approach them with empathy.

Friday, Jun 13 at 4:56 PM kcollector0 wrote ...

I'm so tired of hearing about discrimination....when is the truly discriminated.... single, white, male, over 50 going to have a chance? This kind of reporting is not only not news worthy, I had no Idea these poor people were more than a very small minority

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