As you all know by now, I am a strong proponent of the right of same-sex couples to marry. I am a heterosexual woman who has been married for ten years to a wonderful person named Mick.
By virtue of being heterosexual, my marriage is not at risk from Prop 8, which seeks to take away the right of same-sex couples to marry. Therefore, my personal story might not have much impact on those who support Prop 8.
What about those people whose marriages are at risk? How do they feel about it? How is a civil union different from a marriage, and why isn't it enough? It boggles my mind that anyone would think it's okay to take away the right of a loving couple to marry. I hope the stories I've linked to below will help you understand why it is so important that Prop 8 does not pass.
Tom & George
They are a couple together for ten years who had a wedding ceremony seven years ago. When the California Supreme Court recognized their right to marry in June, they legally married in August.
No On Prop 8 Personal Story
"These have been magical, blessed days for us. Some want to take the marriage away from us, because they don't know us. They hold hatred in their hearts for us. They must. Why else would you take away anyone else's rights? Why deny people their magical, blessed days?"
SF Lesbian Wedding
"They say every woman dreams of her wedding day. As a child, I never did. But if I had, I don’t think I could have imagined a day with more meaning. "
Del Martin & Phyllis Lyons
Del and Phyllis legally married on June 16, 2008 after being together over 50 years. Del died at age 87 on August 27, 2008. The groundwork for Del and Phyllis to marry began sixty years ago when 40 states had criminal laws that prohibited whites and blacks from marrying.
CajunBoyLBG says it well when he writes: This is a stark reminder that someday YOU might be part of a group some deem "less than human" and "unworthy of Constitutional protection". If you don't do the right thing now, will others be there for YOU if the whackjobs come for you?
Indeed.
When you cast your vote on November 4, remember that your vote will effect the rights of real, human, flesh & blood people. Vote NO on Prop 8.