Concerns About Upcoming MA Decision Regarding Same-Sex Marriage

[David__77]

As a gay man whose marriage is not legally recognized, I'm certainly eager to see full equal marriage rights for lesbian and gay Americans. I think that just since 1996, when the gay marriage issue exploded onto the scene of American politics, views have radically changed, and we are approaching something much closer to parity between "pro" and "anti," rather than the 70+% that were opposed back then, leading to a bipartisan "Defense of Marriage" bill.

But I have a couple of concerns about a scenario at present in which a state recognizes same-sex marriages:

First, public opinion is a bit volatile. Opinion polls are a bit skewed about gay rights and civil rights in general, because some are embarassed of their backward views. An example of this is when, in 1982, African-American Democrat Tom Bradley led his opponent for CA governor, but lost handily on election day.

Second, a Constitutional amendment MUST be prevented. I almost think that it's preferable that at least 13 states support equal rights for gay people firmly before same-sex marriage becomes a reality. That way, no amendment could occur, and eventually same-sex marriage would be the national norm, as the unconstitutional "DOMA" is overturned. I'm afraid of being too risky.

"Separate but equal" stinks. I don't like the idea of it. But if, strategically, that would take the air out of the anti-gay forces' balloon, I can deal with it. Someday, when the west and northeast stands for gay rights more reliably--that is the time to make a full offensive on this issue. Again, these are just some ideas--I'm not totally sure about the best way this issue can proceed.

Any thoughts?

[NewsTalk]

1. I think your concerns are well-founded

but I also think that every major development in civil rights has had its catalyst in some major ruling that galvanized both sides, led to worries of short-term setbacks and ultimately led to long term gains. Voting rights, desegregation of schools and the military, interracial marriage -- all of these things required a blunt, in some respects earthshattering, decision -- whether by edict or judicial ruling -- in order to move forward.

I just hope we get that from Massachusetts, instead of a reaffirmation of the grossly unfair status quo.