Here in Massachusetts we’ve had marriage equality since 2004.
As I’ve written previously, one of the most specious arguments against gay marriage has been proffered by a number of socially conservative groups, including the Roman Catholic Church and the Mormons. The legality of same sex marriage in no way intrudes upon who the Church, or any other religious organization, allows to marry. Yet they continue to inveigh that same sex marriage is an attack on the family and undermines the sacrament of marriage. In our experience, nothing could be further from the truth. Allowing more couples to publicly affirm their commitment and enter into legal marriages can only serve to strengthen our society.
Turns out, I’m right!
As Bruce Wilson wrote recently in the Huffington Post:
“According to the most recent data from the National Center For Vital Statistics, Massachusetts retains the national title as the lowest divorce rate state, and the Massachusetts divorce rate is about where the U.S. divorce rate was in 1940...”
Now the state of Maine is fighting for marriage equality. Here’s how the folks at Protect Maine Equality.org explain it:
“On May 6, 2009 Maine ended discrimination in marriage for same-sex couples. This victory was the result of thousands of people who came forward to support marriage for all Maine families. The legislature and Governor followed the people's lead and passed this landmark legislation.
But the fight is not over. Opponents of marriage equality want to turn back the clock. They are working to place a measure on the ballot - modeled after California's Prop 8 - to take away the right of same-sex couples to marry in Maine.
This November, voters will be asked:
"Do you want to reject the new law that lets same-sex couples marry and allows individuals and religious groups to refuse to perform these marriages?"
Answer: Vote NO on 1.”
For five years we have had same sex marriage in Massachusetts. The sky did not fall. Lightning did not strike. Go to Protect Maine Equality.org to see how you can help Maine to enjoy marriage equality as well. Let’s not see a repeat of California’s discriminatory Proposition 8.
Vote NO on 1 - Protect Maine Equality
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
We can only hope that the other states will do better - although as I have read and understood it, Prop 8 very confusing with respect to its language and may have to do with why it went through. Good luck with this cause - I know it will get better and better - and well done to Massachusets on being so progressive and setting the bar.
Ronnie xx
I don't suppose my vote will count, being offshore and all, but I'll give it a go.
Post a Comment