I have to speak out

For anyone who lives in California (and for many of those who don't), you are probably aware of an important Proposition that will be voted on this November. It is called Proposition 8, and it is a state constitutional amendment that will specifically define marriage as between a man and a woman.

A little background: In 2000, the voters of California (by 61% in favor) passed an initiative defining marriage as only between a man and a woman. Four extremely liberal judges in San Fransisco recently ignored the will of the people and declared the initiative unconstitutional. Recently the California legislature authorized gay marriage. Gay marriages are currently being contracted in California. There is a new proposition on the November California ballot which would change the state's constitution to define marriage as only between a man and a woman. The idea being that the courts can't declare the state constitution unconstitutional. (Although I wouldn't put it past them!!)

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I strongly believe that marriage is sacred, is ordained of God, and should only be between a man and a woman. I am not saying that same-sex couples should not be allowed to have a recognized legal union, but I do not believe it should be called marriage.

"Why should I care?" you may be asking yourself. Well, here are 7 consequences that will take place if this proposition is not passed:

1. Children in public schools will be taught that both traditional marriage and same-sex marriage are okay.

The California Education Code already requires that health education classes instruct children about marriage. (§51890) Therefore, if the definition of marriage is changed, children will be taught that marriage is a relation between any two adults. There will be serious clashes between the secular school system and the right of parents to teach their children their own values and beliefs.

2. Churches will be sued if they refuse to allow same-sex marriage ceremonies in their religious buildings that are open to the public. Ask whether your pastor, priest, minister, bishop, or rabbi is ready to perform such marriages in your chapels and sanctuaries.

3. Religious adoption agencies will be challenged by government agencies to give up their long-held right to place children only in homes with both a mother and a father. Catholic Charities in Boston has already closed its doors because of the legalization of same-sex marriage in Massachusetts.

4. Married couples will no longer have preference with regards to adoptee placement in spite of the fact that almost all experts in this field agree that children are best raised in a home with both a mother and a father.

5. Religions that sponsor private schools and which provide housing for married students will be required to provide housing for same-sex couples, even if it runs counter to church doctrine, or lose tax exemptions and benefits.

6. Ministers who preach against same-sex marriages will be sued for hate speech and could be fined by the government. It has already happened in Canada , one of six countries that have legalized gay marriage.

7. It will cost you money. A change in the definition of marriage will bring a cascade of lawsuits. Even if courts eventually find in favor of a defender of traditional marriage (highly improbable given today's activist judges), think of the money – your money, your church contributions – that will have to be spent on legal fees.


If you're concerned and would like to see the passage of Proposition 8, many California churches are working to pass the Proposition. You can volunteer to help or donate to the cause even if you do not live in California, by going to www.ProtectMarriage.com.

I sincerely hope that this post does not offend anyone. That is not my intention. I know this is a sensitive issue for many, including members of the church. But I will stand by what I believe and make no excuses for it.