I understand some people in the gay community are taking back the word “gays” to celebrate their homosexuality. It’s cool that it’s become a word of empowerment, however, I do not enjoy being referred to as a “gay.” I also do not like being referred to as “the gays” when I’m with a group of other homosexual individuals.

A) I’m not an anomaly, I have a name.

B) I don’t call others Blacks, Whites, Chineses, Mexicans, etc. 

C) I’m an individual, therefore not a part of a set of “gays”

D) I am gay, however that is not all that I am. 

So please, if you ever refer to me, call me Ryan. Thanks.