Should gay men be allowed to donate blood after a year of abstinence?

Monique Ligons
tattoo artist | Queen Village
"Yes. I think a year of celibacy for gay men is more than adequate to ensure our blood supply’s safety. It’s unfortunate that gay men might have to be celibate for a year before being allowed to donate blood. But if it’s that important to them [to donate blood], so be it."


Bettina Pereira
student | Gayborhood
"Yes. As long as the blood is tested and proven [to be] safe, I don’t see why not. Blood is hard to find. We can always use an ample blood supply. People may need it when they go in for a medical procedure. I appreciate the precautions that are being taken. It’s one step at a time."


Antoinete Richardson
home health aide | West Philadelphia
"Gay men should be allowed to donate blood automat-ically. They shouldn’t have to be abstinent for a year. Why put that burden on someone? That’s just prejudice. I’m against all forms of discrimination."


Dalila Robinson
homemaker | Olney
"Yes. Blood is blood. People need help. Preventing someone from donating blood because they’re gay is pure stupidity. It goes against common sense. You never know when you might need blood. Everyone should be allowed to be [blood] donors."


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