What are LGBT issues? Does this concept even make sense?
LGBT is an acronym (one of several variants) that encompasses a myriad of individuals and identities: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (in this case, and often added or implied: queer). These group identities are collectivized for the purpose of fighting a series of political issues, all of which arguably circle the topic of sexual identity.
The political issues faced by these groups range widely and wildly, and I wonder how helpful it is to nest this discussion around sexual identity. How much does a gay couple have in common with a trans athlete, exactly? Are their struggles related?
Discussed specifically: gay marriage, adoption rights, trans participation in sports, women in the military. Somehow these issues are held together. Can we find a reasonable through-line?
I argue that each topic must be faced on its own terms, and often comes down to merit. The right to be gay (or trans, or any other sexual identity) is, fundamentally, a human right. But it does not then infer the right to anything else, necessarily.
Marriage is a right bestowed to loving couples, and this should include loving, homosexual couples in an enlightened society.
Adoption is a right bestowed on competent, secure families. This, too, should include loving, homosexual couples, insofar as they are qualified to provide the emotional and financial securities necessary to raise children. Their sexuality should not be regarded as a barrier, because it is irrelevant to raising children.
Participation in sports or the military are entirely different issues, having much less to do with human rights, per se. These come down to the rules of each interest: qualifications, hormone levels, testing, etc. Sexual identity should be totally irrelevant here, just as with the other topics, but scrutiny must still be placed on ability and fairness. This cuts against the presumed politics that fight for human rights - no one should be excused from rules because of identity. I think that might be called “special rights” in some circles. It makes sense to push against that to some degree. It doesn’t make anyone sexist or transphobic. It keeps the playing field fair and equal.