Spring Break
We need to fight poverty and disease, not love
Justin Gero
Issue date: 11/14/08 Section: Ed-Op
Despite the overwhelming evidence clearly showing that same-sex relationships do not harm children, Catholic Charities in Massachusetts stopped adoption services when same-sex marriage became legal in the state. The move was praised by some Catholics as a decision made in "good conscience." How is a decision that places religious dogma over the happiness and well-being of orphaned children a decision made in good conscience? It is clearly a decision based on the irrational fear of homosexuality, with no regard for the truth, or the best interests of children.
In some cases the nature of the fight against same-sex marriage has often involved an odd combination of attempting to show friendship and tolerance towards homosexuals, and at the same time depicting homosexuality as something impure and perverse that society should fear.
Even while dehumanizing and demonizing homosexuality in their ads, the "Yes on 8" campaign also attempted to show that they weren't "anti-gay," they just wanted to "protect marriage."
If the proponents of Prop. 8 really do view gay and lesbian couples as equals, why would there be the need to "protect" marriage from them? You cannot believe someone is your equal, but also undeserving of the same rights that you have. You cannot treat someone with respect and dignity, and at the same time believe that your children will be damaged by them. The fight for same-sex marriage rights is not just about marriage, but about recognizing the humanity of homosexuality.
With so many problems in this world, it is sad and pathetic that so many of us are fighting against equal rights, and against a child's chance at a loving, supportive family.
Organizations that claim righteousness and moral superiority have chosen to dedicate millions of dollars, as well as millions of votes, to fight against the civil rights of their fellow citizens.
Why not bring us $36 million (the amount of money contributed to "Yes on 8") closer to ending poverty? If those organizations are as concerned about children as they claim to be, why aren't they dedicating all that time and money towards making sure every child in America has health care? It is inconceivable to me that preventing same-sex couples from marrying has become a greater rallying cry for religious conservatives than giving a child a fighting chance against cancer.
It is disgraceful that during a time when so many people need help, when there are so many diseases to be cured and injustices to be fought, that so much money is spent on fighting against equality and against love.
It is time for our society to accept same-sex marriage, and recognize that natural, healthy relationships can exist between people of the same gender. It is time for us to treat our fellow citizens with the dignity and respect they deserve, and ensure equal rights for everyone.
Justin Gero is a junior majoring in history & politics and science, technology & society. He is the editor in chief of The Triangle, and can be reached at justin@thetriangle.org.
In some cases the nature of the fight against same-sex marriage has often involved an odd combination of attempting to show friendship and tolerance towards homosexuals, and at the same time depicting homosexuality as something impure and perverse that society should fear.
Even while dehumanizing and demonizing homosexuality in their ads, the "Yes on 8" campaign also attempted to show that they weren't "anti-gay," they just wanted to "protect marriage."
If the proponents of Prop. 8 really do view gay and lesbian couples as equals, why would there be the need to "protect" marriage from them? You cannot believe someone is your equal, but also undeserving of the same rights that you have. You cannot treat someone with respect and dignity, and at the same time believe that your children will be damaged by them. The fight for same-sex marriage rights is not just about marriage, but about recognizing the humanity of homosexuality.
With so many problems in this world, it is sad and pathetic that so many of us are fighting against equal rights, and against a child's chance at a loving, supportive family.
Organizations that claim righteousness and moral superiority have chosen to dedicate millions of dollars, as well as millions of votes, to fight against the civil rights of their fellow citizens.
Why not bring us $36 million (the amount of money contributed to "Yes on 8") closer to ending poverty? If those organizations are as concerned about children as they claim to be, why aren't they dedicating all that time and money towards making sure every child in America has health care? It is inconceivable to me that preventing same-sex couples from marrying has become a greater rallying cry for religious conservatives than giving a child a fighting chance against cancer.
It is disgraceful that during a time when so many people need help, when there are so many diseases to be cured and injustices to be fought, that so much money is spent on fighting against equality and against love.
It is time for our society to accept same-sex marriage, and recognize that natural, healthy relationships can exist between people of the same gender. It is time for us to treat our fellow citizens with the dignity and respect they deserve, and ensure equal rights for everyone.
Justin Gero is a junior majoring in history & politics and science, technology & society. He is the editor in chief of The Triangle, and can be reached at justin@thetriangle.org.
Viewing Comments 1 - 3 of 4
James
posted 11/14/08 @ 10:41 AM EST
The name of the 'Mormon' church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Dropping By
posted 11/14/08 @ 11:41 AM EST
Hey, you're entitled to your opinions, but could you at least attempt to get your facts straight?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ("Mormon") did not contribute any money to Prop 8. (Continued…)
Brian
posted 11/14/08 @ 12:25 PM EST
I would recommend you take a look at the substantial efforts the LDS church and its members are continually making to fight poverty and disease. www.lds. (Continued…)
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