by Jeffrey G. Gibson

About the author: Jeffrey G. Gibson, a trial lawyer, served for six years on the American Bar Associaton’s (ABA) Committee on the Rights of Lesbians and Gay Men.

There are many children in the United States in need of the stability of a permanent home with good parents, including large numbers of foster children. Despite this growing need, many prospective parents who are identified as gay or lesbian have been refused as candidates for adopting children solely on the basis of their sexual orientation. The American Bar Association (ABA) has an interest in the laws and policies that will promote the increased permanent placement of children in stable homes with good parents. It also has long been a leader in efforts to eradicate bigotry and prejudice...