Letter: Don’t let the family be undermined
When we go to the polls next month there are many important decisions to be made. As usual there will be numerous initiatives and propositions to consider, some very confusing and complex.
One which could have some of the most profound effect on us and on society as a whole is the epitome of simplicity and leaves no doubt as to its meaning. The one I am referring to is Proposition 8, the Defense of Traditional Marriage, which defines marriage as being between one man and one woman.
The traditional American family has been under assault for decades now. Even though Californians voted overwhelmingly a couple of years ago to ban gay and lesbian marriage in this state, the Supreme court managed to thwart the will of the people and found or devised a loophole so they could call the vote unconstitutional. The only way to change that ruling is to amend the constitution of the state, which is what Measure 8 will do.
Contrary to some of the scare tactics you may hear, this does not discriminate against gays and/or lesbians who wish to enter into civil contracts or unions, or deprive them of any rights in any way.
Marriage is not a “right,” and has always been subject to some rules and regulations. This simply does not let same sex unions become legitimized and placed on the same level as traditional marriage. I really don’t care what two consenting adults do behind closed doors and in the privacy of their homes. I do know that the family is the basic building block of our society.
To undermine this foundation by allowing deviant behavior to become the norm or appear as normal and acceptable puts on a slippery slope to even more destructive and degenerate acts.
Please join with me and many others who have a deep concern for this issue and vote a resounding “Yes” on election day.
Gordon E. Skeels,
Madera
