Thursday, December 03, 2009

"Do You Think We're Ready for That Kind of Commitment?"

Yesterday's vote in the New York Senate was not a step forward for gay and lesbian people, but New York Senator Diane Savino spoke truths yesterday that, I think, could possibly change minds, and help those against gay marriage to understand that this is a human rights issue, plain and simple.

But once again, it comes down the word "marriage." Its simply too ensconced within a religious framework for certain Christians, which is why they constantly object to gay marriage on the grounds that it's "changing the definition of marriage."

If we could receive the exact same rights and privileges with a civil union, would be still be fighting this fight? Probably so. And I think that's a mistake. We're fighting for a word when, I believe, we should be fighting for the same rights. From what I understand, if we simply called it something else, a strong majority of Christians would have no issue with gay people receiving equal protection and privilege under the law. But as it is, "marriage" is holding us back.

Then again, don't listen to me. The marriage I grew up observing crashed and burned not long after I entered into this world. Maybe I think if I call it something else, the result will be different. Who knows.

Here's Senator Savino, a new hero of mine...


18 comments:

philip said...

I am ready for a commitment with this woman.

Bryant said...

What an amazing woman to have in our corner. She gets it! This is not a religious or a political issue. This is a civil rights issue. Frankly, I don't care what it is called, but it is imperative that we enjoy the same rights as our heterosexual brothers and sisters. If people want to insure the sanctity of marriage, outlaw divorce!

jer said...

http://www.nysenate.gov/senator/diane-j-savino

here's the link to her website...send her a thank you note. i did.

Anonymous said...

Amen, brother! The work should be for the substance, not for the name. Insisting on Marriage (capital M) and sacrificing getting the actual rights, obligations and benefits with another name is short-sighted.

Alanda said...

Wow, she's amazing!! xo

Doctor K said...

I agree. Some people are so fixated on the word marriage. Give me a Civil Union and I'd be perfectly content.

AnonyMe said...

Well said, Stephen, and wow- where did you find this woman? I wish I could speak so clearly about what I think! Someday, surely we can get this done. I'll keep hoping.

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Anonymous said...

being from new york, this really upset me. i just htink that in this day and age, why is it still such an issue!?

philip said...

This post has NOT been removed by the author.
Yay!!!

Mark in DE said...

But if we settle for 'civil unions' or some other name for marriage, we agree to remain 2nd class citizens, not worthy of the same right to marry that heteros automatically yet just for being hetero. Separate is never equal.