From the 17th to 19th centuries, Western Europeans criticized the Islamic East for its earlier sexual liberties. The Ottoman Empire, which decriminalized homosexuality in 1858, was pioneering in sexual tolerance. However, colonialism and nationalism erased this legacy. In recent years, the U.S. has significantly influenced global LGBTQ+ rights, leading to both victories and rising conservatism. As the world celebrates Pride, rooted in the 1969 U.S. uprising, it's clear that the U.S. must continue to lead on human rights and not regress on its progress.
From the 17th to 19th centuries, Western Europeans often condemned the Islamic East, not for conservatism, but for a liberty they found scandalous.
The Ottoman Empire was arguably leading the world in sexual tolerance, having decriminalized homosexuality in 1858.
Whether it wants to or not, the United States has long influenced social and policy changes worldwide. We've seen a global surge in LGBTQ+ rights in recent years.
This is not the time for the U.S., specifically its leaders, to retreat or regress. America must remember that history is watching, and the moral imperative is to lead, not lag behind.
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