Far-right group to use Macy's parade to spread antigay message

News 2005-11-23 Far-right group to use Macy's parade to spread antigay message Focus on the Family is promoting a new Web site that claims homosexuality can be changed through faith.

The balloons at Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade won't be the only things filled with hot air this week in New York.

Antigay Colorado group Focus on the Family said Tuesday that its members plan to distribute 5,000 "stress balls" along the parade route to promote a Web site it operates that claims that homosexuality is a disorder that can be cured through faith. Visitors to the site, TroubledWith.com, who think they might be gay or lesbian are told, "You're not simply 'wired that way.'" In another section, visitors are told that being gay or lesbian can be prevented, because "like other adult problems, homosexuality begins at home. Mom and Dad are key players." Also to blame are porn, the media, and "seduction by peers."

The Web site also carries faith-based advice on topics ranging from eating disorders to depression.

Focus on the Family plans to run 30-second commercials in the New York market during The Oprah Winfrey Show and Dr. Phil. The group is already running ads on an electronic billboard in Times Square.

The conservative ministry appears to be in a desperate search for new, younger followers to tune in to the radio show by Focus founder James Dobson. Web site creator Steve Watters told the Associated Press that the number of listeners has not been growing in recent years and that most people who call for help are in their late 40s. (Advocate.com)

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