Zachary Quinto Reveals He is Gay: Making Steps to Change Society for the Better

COMMMENTARY | Zachary Quinto, the standout star who played Spock in the film "Star Trek," opened up to the public, acknowledging that he is a gay man. Quinto said that the suicide of 14-year-old Jamey Rodemeyer, who was bullied because of his homosexuality, was a catalyst for him in coming out.

Quinto commented via his blog post, "...our society needs to recognize the unstoppable momentum toward unequivocal civil equality for every gay lesbian bisexual and transgendered citizen of this country."

Quinto said that it is his intention to live an "authentic life of compassion, integrity, and action," and that Rodemeyer's death changed his life. He hopes to make the positive changes we as a society need to see in order to become whole again.

If every person were to live their life with compassion and integrity, and love for fellow human beings without judgement, the world would be a different place.

Quinto's story comes out a time when our nation is severely divided. Those on the extreme right who use their religion as an excuse to incite violence and hate against those they deem unworthy have been coming out in droves.

I read a message board post yesterday that made me literally nauseous. The writer referred to a gay pastor who was brought to tears by the acceptance of his church after they learned he was homosexual. The pastor was touched that the congregation was aware that he was a good man, who exemplified what Jesus was trying to instill in others during his time, unconditional love and not judgement of others. They allowed him to continue his good works.

The writer condemned the church and the man, saying that he was evil, and that the devil had taken control, just as he has done with all of the "liberals" and homosexuals in our society.

It was difficult for me to read further, but it was an interesting, if sad, look into the eyes of a mind who was seriously twisted into believing that the hate of fellow human beings is something that God would want. It is possible that the author is a part of the Church of Hate, the Westboro Baptist Church, or one that is similar. Their church members thank God for bringing death to those they deem unworthy, and gays are one of the main targets.

Quinto says that he is grateful that his eyes were opened by Rodemeyer's death, and that he only wishes he had done something sooner. Changes in society usually come in small steps, and Quinto's efforts are certainly steps in the right direction.