Are we not trying to fight for equal rights for everyone? Have we forgotten that we are all one nation and that no matter your sex, age, race or sexual preference; that we are all one and stand together. I am putting together this petition as I was deferred from donating blood as I have had sexual intercourse with another man! I used to be an active donor of blood and plasma; until the day that I told them that I was gay and have had sex with another man; then I was DENIED!<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

Why should I be denied because I have had sex with another man? They say it’s because homosexuals have scientifically had a higher percentage in sexually transmitted disease. Whether that is true or not, do they not test our blood before using it? I know they must because if not, what is the purpose of the vials of blood they take before starting your donation? I know when I did give blood I always got test results back on my blood telling me everything was fine. Also, they are not denying woman that have had sexual intercourse with another woman! Why is that?

There should be no reason as to why I should, nor any other gay man out there; be able to give blood! This discriminating needs to be put to an end. They are testing all of our blood anyways before giving it out to people in need. I know if they were to turn this over they will have a lot more donors out there. They are always in high demand for blood. So I ask of you the people, help me by taking a stand to over change this ruling to allow all people to donate blood.