I’ve always known I’d be voting NO on the Marriage Amendment come election day – there was never a question in my mind. I’ve always believed everyone deserves the same rights and should have them in the eyes of the law. Unfortunately, that’s not even what this amendment is about. The Marriage Amendment, if it were passed, would change the constitution of the state of Minnesota to define marriage as between a man and a woman. If it does not pass, the constitution remains unchanged, but that still doesn’t make it legal. That would take yet another vote. I believe this is something quite a few people voting on the amendment still haven’t realized.
We of course know now that only 50 years ago, giving black Americans equal rights was absolutely the right thing to do. That isn’t questioned in the minds of most of the population. Those who do question it are branded as extremists, and are written off as such. Though we do still struggle as a nation with the issue of racism, all signs point to a brighter future. In a few generations, it will hopefully no longer be an issue.
The gay rights movement is a generation behind this. While, in time, views will change and people will come to see the same rights they are given in the future as deserved, we have the opportunity now to be the most progressive state in the nation, and step ahead. We have the opportunity to tell the rest of the country that we value each and every single Minnesotan as a human being, and give them rights as such.
Giving a group the same rights you’ve always had doesn’t mean you or your beliefs or your lifestyle is under attack. It just means you recognize that group as equally deserving of your respect as anyone else. Please VOTE NO in November.
I am a straight, 20-something business college student. I am an atheist (but don’t hold that against me) and rational and compassionate woman. I live in Waite Park with my wonderful boyfriend, and dog and cat, all of whom are talking to me right now.
As always, if you have anything to add to the conversation, just comment below!
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