Disney Channel Introduces Network's First Same-Sex Couple Ever

[Canooknic]

Very nice Yellowstonetim

 

[LaurenPlock]

I saw the episode, and thought the writers did an excellent job. The show didn't promote anything. The message was essentially, "Gay people exist, and they have personalities just like everyone else." Nothing radical. It was completely normal, and I thought it was great. Interesting fact, this isn't actually the first time the Disney Channel has mentioned a gay couple in their programming. About a year ago, they did a "Make your mark" feature about a kid that wanted to be a filmmaker. He mentioned something offhandedly about his momS and... that's basically all that was said. I remember doing a double take and rewinding the clip to make sure I heard him correctly. There was no boycott or media blitz then, but the attitude was the same. You can watch it here: http://youtu.be/FZsyyL21Lpk

 

[mamaprincess]

From the article: "Disney has decided to be politically correct instead of providing family-friendly programming."

Funny, I would consider anything that is anti-equal rights to be what is NOT family-friendly.

If there were something I'd want to protect my children from in this world, it would be bigotry and prejudice.

Couldn't have said it better.

 

[Suger Mag]

When I opened this thread I did so with apprehension... a little scared at the possibility of hate and bigotry fueled by fear and ignorance. So glad that that has not come to be the reality, but rather a overwhelming majority of DISers (edited to add: who are commenting) agree with my view that this is a positive for Disney.

Only one poster so far on this thread still still seems to think that being gay is something bad or unhealthy that you can catch or choose... which seems to me to be at the root of their fear about Disney "promoting a lifestyle"....

Being gay is not a lifestyle 'choice". I did not choose to be born... I did not choose to be born a female.... Nor did I choose the parents I was born to .... and I did not make a choice to have a particular sexual orientation. Being gay or hetero is no more a free will choice than me choosing to be born a female.

I applaud Disney for representing the realty of gay parenting in our society in a tasteful and positive manner.

 

[TwoAtDisney]

Funniest image I've had in a while - Protecting children from something the parent doesn't "believe in", & then sending them off to school, & later off to work! Good luck with that!

 

[reebs2]

Only one poster so far on this thread still still seems to think that being gay is something bad or unhealthy that you can catch or choose... which seems to me to be at the root of their fear about Disney "promoting a lifestyle"....

.

Or could it be that others who share this view are afraid of the backlash from the so-called tolerant members of society?

 

[Tonka's Skipper]

I'd rather children be exposed to happy families and good-natured fun than the fodder they see in the media normally--beauty is everything, sex sells, etc.

Kids don't see the controversy. They just see people. I think this is incredibly cool.

Well put.

 

[Suger Mag]

Or could it be that others who share this view are afraid of the backlash from the so-called tolerant members of society?

I am only commenting on what has been posted so far.... not on what 'might' be in people's minds or hearts.

Something about "you reap what you sow" comes to mind... but if folks don't want to come and post to public forum with a view based on their intolerance towards certain citizens of our society... then that is their choice. I don't feel as if I or anyone else on this thread has been particularly threatening.

 

[TipsyTraveler]

Or could it be that others who share this view are afraid of the backlash from the so-called tolerant members of society?

I wondered that myself. Is the overall accepting vibe of this thread representative of the general attitude toward homosexuality today (I hope so), or have we just gotten to the point where those who hold prejudiced ideas think it's best to keep it to themselves? After all, at some point being openly racist fell out of favor. That didn't mean racism ceased to exist, people just realized it wasn't acceptable to be so open with it anymore. Perhaps that's where we are with the gay-equality movement now. Personally, I think anyone who is ashamed, embarrassed, uncomfortable, etc with their convictions needs to reexamine their convictions. As for the "so-called tolerant members of society" you mentioned... No one should ever become so tolerant that they tolerate intolerance.

 

[dolewhipMickey]

While I think it is great to include themes of inclusion and equality and to expose children to those things, and while it is absolutely a positive thing for children and teens to accept and embrace people of different lifestyles, I think there should be a safe space to express a view that may not be a popular one these days. While I don't agree with using terms like "yuk" or referring to something as not "healthy" (as I myself have several gay friends, and am certain many people of that community are healthy, wonderful individuals who would make terrific parents and spouses), I think it is OKAY for people to disagree with the same-sex couple being shown on Disney Channel. For me at least, on the one hand, it fills me with joy that youth could watch that episode and just see "people" as a poster upthread mentioned; but on the other hand, I think that oversimplifying this issue and not at least acknowledging that people against it may be coming from a place other than prejudice, is not fair.

I have given the topic a lot of thought, and I think there is a lot of research and studies out there; some of it supports the idea that it is fine for a child to be raised by different combinations of people; OTOH, some of it clearly illustrates the importance of having a mother/father pairing as the ideal. I just want to say that watching that episode did not make me upset, but it did make me wonder what the long term affects of making this family structure normative will be on society. Again, not coming from a place of prejudice, but giving my honest opinion. I think it's okay to not be completely 100% okay with it automatically, and I don't think people should feel pressured to change their opinion just because it is not the norm right now. I am trying to give this viewpoint as respectfully as possible, so I ask that people please take a moment before they rush to shake their heads at me.

 

[Son of Gadsden]

Thegoodword is just stating what they believe in, and it's unfortunate, yet ironic, that some can't respect that. I didn't read where they said homosexuals should be punished, shunned from society, or not treated equal. They stated they don't care to have their kids be exposed to it. Some people say their kids shouldn't be exposed to guns, violence in any manner, alcohol (not the kids, but around adults), and any other manner of things. Sexuality is very much an adult thing, and though I agree that most kids won't think anything of it, I could understand someone not caring to have their kids exposed and ask the questions. That is based on their beliefs, and their parenting plans. Who are you to judge that? Saying it's sad they think that is the same thing as if they said it's sad there is homosexuality in the world. Christianity is a subject that is much more complicated than most would like to think, and most people have no idea why Christianity doesn't support it, nor realize how minor of a thing it is overall. Simply put, it's not a matter of what your gender of preference is, but your intent to reproduce. I, personally, don't think I would block my kids from it, but I also don't care for sexuality and sexual preferences to be thrown into every aspect of life. I don't want to eat a rainbow oreo, not because I hate homosexuals, but because I don't want to associate an oreo with sexuality. Let's just let it be, people. Accept homosexuality in the world (which I think every poster here does, some just don't care for their kids to be exposed at such an early age). And also accept that not everyone is going to agree with your methods or beliefs. Why does it even matter? Half of the division in modern society is instigated by the government, and has very little to do with society in the first place. Gay marriage? The government shouldn't be marrying people anyway. Why? Why do you deserve a tax break for being married? Why is the government involved in the first place. No one should be praising the government for accepting homosexuality. They have no business having any say about it whatsoever. It's all ridiculous.

 

[TwoAtDisney]

Christianity - If the term "Christianity" refers to people who believe in the Christian Bible, then it does not condemn homosexuality. It's just that some Christians don't know what their own Bible says. The Old Testament is from the Jewish history. It has nothing to do with Christ & his religion of Christianity. It is only a book of stories, degrees, rules passed down by the Jewish faith. The New Testament is where Christ & Christianity begins. Christ declared we should all love each other equally. He did not condemn homosexuality.

In Indiana, some are trying to amend the state constitution to prevent same sex marriage. There are many religious leaders & religous groups fighting against this amendment. Their reason - Christ & Christianity = love everyone equally, or you are not a Christian.

Parental Studies - Whether studies indicate a home with a mother & a father (opposite sex) is best has nothing to do with same sex marriage & allowing same sex couples to adopt. 26% of U.S. homes with children have single parents (per 2011 census). So if anyone uses same sex marriage as not the ideal & therefore should not be allowed, then all of those children should not be allowed to the non-ideal single parent - same rationale & just as ridiculous!

Disney corporation obviously has the right to run their business as they choose. We each have the right to participate in their business or not. Obviously, this statement is elementary in it's truth.

 

[dolewhipMickey]

Disney corporation obviously has the right to run their business as they choose. We each have the right to participate in their business or not. Obviously, this statement is elementary in it's truth.

Honestly, I don't understand the point of statements like this. Of course, those of us who oppose what's being shown have the right to not participate. We are very well aware of that, but we ALSO have a right to an opinion just as much as someone else has a right to express an opinion in favor of the episode. Sometimes with these topics, I honestly feel like people come at it with the attitude of "what's your opinion on this--but what I really mean is tell me your opinion if its in agreement with mine, otherwise don't express your thoughts". I'm just miffed by that.

And regarding the parental studies, I have heard that argument about single-parent households before. Of course, it is ridiculous to suggest that those type of households not be allowed to exist anymore, and it's not at all what I was getting at. And to be more to the point and keep things consistent, when it comes down to it, I don't even think single-parente households are THE ideal. Do many single parents work hard and do an amazing job raising great people? OF COURSE. Does that mean that I will agree that one stable parent is just as good as having two stable parents IN GENERAL? No. And I don't think that is prejudiced in any way. Also, my rationale is not ridiculous because I believe SSM is a fundamental transformation of the family. Single-parent households are not, in my opinion.

Put another way, I would have been more comfortable seeing a same sex couple on Good Luck Charlie being presented as just that, a couple, and not as parents. I'm not the expert on parental studies, but I know enough to know that at this time in history, there isn't an overwhelming amount of evidence yet for me to know for sure what the effects are. And therefore, I do feel I have a right to be wary.

 

[Yellowstonetim]

I wondered that myself. Is the overall accepting vibe of this thread representative of the general attitude toward homosexuality today (I hope so), or have we just gotten to the point where those who hold prejudiced ideas think it's best to keep it to themselves? After all, at some point being openly racist fell out of favor. That didn't mean racism ceased to exist, people just realized it wasn't acceptable to be so open with it anymore. Perhaps that's where we are with the gay-equality movement now. Personally, I think anyone who is ashamed, embarrassed, uncomfortable, etc with their convictions needs to reexamine their convictions. As for the "so-called tolerant members of society" you mentioned... No one should ever become so tolerant that they tolerate intolerance.

For example, I don't want to get into a debate, but my post never said I "agree" with homosexuality or that certain assumptions. My post just said that we all need to learn to get along and, even if we disagree, allow others to live their lives. And, love others, even if you disagree with them.

There are more people than you think that take this approach. The noisy hateful people, and the pro "everything is OK" get the attention, but there are a large number of people that don't agree or like, but will be tolerant and loving. The "militant" vocal minority in the LGBT community deny this is possible and that these people, such as myself, exist.

I do believe in love and tolerance. But I don't agree with many assumptions. A debate is not appropriate here, nor am I the one to hold it. I would refer to my good friend who was gay and is no longer for many years. His words, his description, his choice, his right. (For a number of reasons.) He is a sexual issues counselor now, happily married with a grown married daughter and two beautiful grandchildren. His group, the self stated ex-gay, is the most hated and reviled minority that exists. His is the one opinion that is not allowed. Some of these people even receive threats.

My point, if you go back and read my post, is that agreement on homosexuality is not necessary. Tolerance, love, kindness, patience, freedom... these are what are needed by all parties.

I would agree with those that don't see a problem with a child seeing two moms or two dads. Why? Because it is reality today. There are many other things that exist and are portrayed in society that Christians disagree with but tolerate, why not this issue, too? I think it is because change is hard. However, it is up to parents to teach the child how to deal with these situations. Hopefully parents will teach tolerance and love even if they disagree.

 

[Yellowstonetim]

...Christian Bible, then it does not condemn homosexuality. It's just that some Christians don't know what their own Bible says.

I am sorry but this is wrong. I don't expect anyone to accept this, just correcting your assumption. Many say that both the OT and NT items about homosexuality are cultural or were about morality of partners actions, but the statements are there and clear. Whether they apply to today is open to debate. If you want to debate this, I won't, I just wanted to state this for others that may read this. Everyone can read Romans 1 for themselves and draw their own conclusions. This is the passage that most clearly addresses the issue.

Again, each person must make up their own mind. What we need is tolerance, love, and freedom. And that freedom is for all sides.

 

[Son of Gadsden]

I am sorry but this is wrong. I don't expect anyone to accept this, just correcting your assumption. Many say that both the OT and NT items about homosexuality are cultural or were about morality of partners actions, but the statements are there and clear. Whether they apply to today is open to debate. If you want to debate this, I won't, I just wanted to state this for others that may read this. Everyone can read Romans 1 for themselves and draw their own conclusions. This is the passage that most clearly addresses the issue. Again, each person must make up their own mind. What we need is tolerance, love, and freedom. And that freedom is for all sides.

Gotta say I disagree with you this time Tim. I'm not saying you don't, but the majority of 'Christians' I talk to about the subject (and other typical controversial subjects around religious folks...tattoos, cursing, etc) have no clue what they're talking about, nor the context they are referring to. I've always been against quoting scriptures because the Bible was not meant to be paraphrased. Anyway, you're right, it shouldn't be debated or this is going to get locked.

I do know the bible condemns homosexuality though, I just think he has a point that a lot of them are misguided in the 'why'.

 

[Yellowstonetim]

Gotta say I disagree with you this time Tim. I'm not saying you don't, but the majority of 'Christians' I talk to about the subject (and other typical controversial subjects around religious folks...tattoos, cursing, etc) have no clue what they're talking about, nor the context they are referring to. I've always been against quoting scriptures because the Bible was not meant to be paraphrased. Anyway, you're right, it shouldn't be debated or this is going to get locked.

I do know the bible condemns homosexuality though, I just think he has a point that a lot of them are misguided in the 'why'.

My miscommunication then, because we agree. I am sure many on all sides have no clue why they believe what they believe. Or use very loose logic and/or interpretation. I was just trying to make the point, as you say, about what the Bible says. But yes, many are misguided in the 'why'.

I don't want to get into it either. I just want everyone to know that whatever side of this issue someone comes down on, hate and intolerance are not required! Love and patience and kindness and tolerance should be the rule of action from every side toward every side!

I am very glad this discussion was allowed this long just to be able to discuss and say that I didn't have a problem with the show and that we need to LOVE each other!

Patience, tolerance, kindness, love!

Actually maybe we need this discussion in the threads about FP+ now that I think about it! But there are limits to tolerance.

 

[TipsyTraveler]

Yellowstonetim, the topic of this thread, as you know, is about whether it's appropriate for Disney to introduce gay characters on a kids show. I read your earlier post. You essentially said you were fine with it. Then Suger Mag came along and expressed relief that most of the replies here were in support of Disney's choice, instead of the hate-fueled arguments one might expect to see in a discussion of this nature such as "being gay is something bad or unhealthy that you can catch or choose". Following that, Reebs2 asked if the lack of those types of responses was because people were fearful of the backlash they might receive if they got on here and made inflammatory statements such as those. That is what I was replying to. You are, of course, welcome to join that conversation and share your opinions, but I'm confused as to what your reply had to do with my post that you quoted. I'm not being snarky, maybe I'm just missing your point? Is your point that people could be fine with seeing gay characters on TV while still maintaining the opinion that a gay lifestyle is not an appropriate way to live? Ok, I wasn't debating that. I think a lot of people here, myself included, are just happy to see that an internet conversation like this can remain civil without resorting to gay-bashing. No one said we were all in agreement. Surprisingly though, most everyone seems to agree that Disney is not causing irreparable harm to children by showing a gay couple on TV. That the majority of the people here can agree on that is progress in itself, in my opinion.

 

[Yellowstonetim]

Yellowstonetim, the topic of this thread, as you know, is about whether it's appropriate for Disney to introduce gay characters on a kids show. I read your earlier post. You essentially said you were fine with it. Then Suger Mag came along and expressed relief that most of the replies here were in support of Disney's choice, instead of the hate-fueled arguments one might expect to see in a discussion of this nature such as "being gay is something bad or unhealthy that you can catch or choose". Following that, Reebs2 asked if the lack of those types of responses was because people were fearful of the backlash they might receive if they got on here and made inflammatory statements such as those. That is what I was replying to. You are, of course, welcome to join that conversation and share your opinions, but I'm confused as to what your reply had to do with my post that you quoted. I'm not being snarky, maybe I'm just missing your point? Is your point that people could be fine with seeing gay characters on TV while still maintaining the opinion that a gay lifestyle is not an appropriate way to live? Ok, I wasn't debating that. I think a lot of people here, myself included, are just happy to see that an internet conversation like this can remain civil without resorting to gay-bashing. No one said we were all in agreement. Surprisingly though, most everyone seems to agree that Disney is not causing irreparable harm to children by showing a gay couple on TV. That the majority of the people here can agree on that is progress in itself, in my opinion.

Sorry, I was not communicating well. I was addressing your question about acceptance. My acceptance of the show and my tone in this thread is not because I am accepting of homosexuality from a moral standpoint. It is only because I believe in tolerance and love. People can think homosexuality is wrong and still be kind, loving, and tolerant while allowing others to live their own lives in freedom.

And I too appreciate this thread and the ability to discuss amicably. I lose track of who said what, but someone implied that most agree with homosexuality and certain assumptions about homosexuality because of the tone of the thread (if I read it correctly), I was disagreeing with that assumption. Also a statement was made about what the Bible says, rather matter-of-factly, with which I disagree.

However, I too appreciate the tone of this thread. And yes I do agree that the TV show is OK, and shouldn't bother parents which is the main point of the thread. Parents of all sides should discuss what they see on TV with their children.

The key is tolerance and love, even if we have disagreements about what is moral and right. There are many differences but we have to get along. I am against the militant, angry, and hateful on BOTH sides of this and any issue.

 

[OnyxNine]

I agree that Disney is just reflecting normal society today. I am not certain, because I haven't seen the show, but it appears that Disney didn't make any statement other than that they exist and are neighbors. There is a difference between doing a whole show that promotes the lifestyle and just including something that is a part of life.

Many things are portrayed on TV I may not agree with. I don't mind their portrayal, it is more important HOW they are portrayed. Something could be portrayed very negatively, very positively, or neutrally. I don't agree with adultery or divorce, but both are portrayed commonly; some portrayals promote, some are neutral, some are negative.

In today's society any child may run into two Mom's or two Dad's at school, the playground, the store. Everyone needs to learn how to deal with this and to do so with kindness and love.

I am a relatively conservative Christian and it doesn't bother me that this couple made an appearance. As you state, it is a part of life. Whether or not you agree with the life style whether it be homosexuality or Christianity, you have to learn to live with those around you. As in Alice Royal's post.

I disagree with you about teaching immorality. You can teach that something is immoral to your children and still teach them to be kind and accepting of the person. Some people here think Christianity is immoral, some smoking, some sex outside marriage, some homosexuality, some adultery, some drinking alcohol, some witchcraft, some going to Universal (an attempt at jesting). Whatever it is, as long as you teach your children to be kind, polite, respectful, and allow others to make their own choices, than it is OK. The problem is when people teach hate or mistreatment of that with which they disagree.

You can disagree with something and still treat the people around you with respect, love, and kindness. There are many things in society I disagree with but I don't hate the people or treat them badly. I see smoking but I don't want smokers to disappear from TV or society. I did teach my children about smoking, that it was bad, and the people that do it are wrong. But I also taught them to be polite to people and love everyone.

Wow, I'm surprised this thread has gone so well and been allowed. But it is relevant since it is a Disney show.

Love is patient, love is kind... We need to love first, even those we disagree with. If only more would use this approach.

Well said .