Ahmadinejad Misunderstood Again

In Iran we don't have homosexuals like in your country.

This quote by President Ahmadinejad brought laughter when he spoke to students at Columbia University, but the atmosphere in Iran must be properly understood to see the truth in his statement.

This was not a declaration that homosexuals do not exist in Iran, it was a comparison between the two cultures. Homosexuals in Iran are not like those in America.

In America, gay and lesbian proponents are up front, outspoken, and declare their preferences to the entire world. They are constantly protesting, lobbying, and demanding the right to be who they are in public. In contrast, the homosexual community in Iran is much more tolerant of the greater society in which they live. They understand that sexual preference is an individual choice, and value their right to privacy in such personal matters. Ahmadinejad has created an harmonious world for gay and lesbian couples to live and work side by side with heterosexuals without the need to declare themselves 'out'.

Recently, one of our own outspoken Americans publically declared her affection for President Ahmadinejad.

"Okay, I admit it. Part of it is that he just looks cuddly. Possibly cuddly enough to turn me straight. I think he kind of looks like Kermit the Frog."

While I'm sure Mahmood would be flattered Sally, I understand he's already married. It may be in everyone's best interest to keep that one to yourself.