IT has been suggested that making gay marriage legal in New York City is another positive step in the right direction towards eradicating gay hate (torquaywhites, Opinion, June 29).

First of all, hatred towards any individual or group regardless of colour, creed or sexual orientation should be deplored; hatred being the very means that creates fear and division.

Historically, mankind has contrived various forms of an inclusive society without notable success.

Without God’s immutable love, hatred will never leave society but can only be attenuated by striving towards righteous living and obedience to God’s immutable laws.

Phil Heaton, Blackburn.