by Tammie Kuhn

Created on: December 28, 2008   Last Updated: January 19, 2009

If I were to say that two blind people shouldn't marry because they could possibly produce a blind child, I would be called a bigot. There is no difference in telling people that are disabled that they cannot marry than telling a gay couple they may not. Of course, in our society, it is entirely ok to tell homosexuals that they are disallowed the rights given to all citizens because they don't hold the same beliefs as spiritual and religious leaders. If a homosexual is denied certain rights, our leaders pat themselves on the back and say that they have done a great service to humankind. If a disabled person is denied their rights, the laws are changed to accomodate the evil done on to them.

Why should people that love each other be told that they may not marry, nor enjoy the benefits of marriage? This topic is one that sparks absolute rage in some, both for and against gay marriage. I find it ridiculous that politicians and religious leaders believe that they have the absolute power and right to tell others who they may or may not marry.There is no legitimate reason to prevent marriage in gay couples. I've heard plenty of arguments;

- "Since gay couples can't reproduce, there is no reaon for marriage" Many hetrosexual couples who choose to marry also choose not to have children. Should they be denied marriage because they don't intend on breeding?

- "It sets a bad example" A bad example for whom? We are teaching our children that it is ok for the government to tell people who they may love. We are telling them, through our actions if not directly, that it is ok to single out a particular lifestyle for persecution.

- "It is against god's will" Hate to break it to you folks, not everyone believes in god as you do. Not everyone holds your beliefs. Just because YOU believe that there is some omnipotent presence that will strike you dead if you dare defy his word as you've interpreted it doesn't make it true.

- "They don't have long lasting relationships" I don't know what brilliant mind first argued this point, but I'd like to slap him. In hetrosexual marriages, the divorce rate is over 50%. Why would it be any different in homosexual ones? If we apply this belief to everyone, no one would ever marry. I could almost argue that homosexual marriages may be longer lasting, because they have to fight so hard to be together.

For the record, I am a white middle aged mother of five. I have never been involved in a homosexual relationship. I'm a Republican. Regardless of what label you choose to place on me, I am always a human being. I believe that everyone should be treated equally. I've taught my children that it is never ok to be intolerant of someone who is different than them. I've taught them that every human being deserves to be treated with respect and kindness. I'm hoping that other parents are teaching their children the same, and that someday these children will become our leaders. Then, we will truly have equality for all.

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