Karen Richen : Attitude toward same - sex marriage and the gay community has evolved . She says youth have been key in changing the face of gay rights . In 2012 , a Gallup poll showed that 59 % of American adults said gay and lesbian relationships are morally acceptable , up 19 percentage points since 2001 . Their efforts and work behind the scenes have created a new perspective , she says .
Karen Richen : Attitude toward same - sex marriage and the gay community has evolved . She says youth have been key in changing the face of gay rights . Their efforts and work behind the scenes have created a new perspective , she says .