Collegian

On Feb. 4, Massachusetts' highest court declared the state's ban on gay marriage unconstitutional in a 4-3vote. Reason has finally prevailed.

Ruling in favor of same-sex marriage, judges ruled that state lawyers "failed to identify any constitutionally adequate reason to deny them the right."

In 2004, 13 states passed anti-gay marriage referendums, including Ohio. Supporters argue that they want to defend the family and the sanctity of marriage.

That same year, President Bush backed a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage, but allow civil unions.

It seems the majority agrees.

"Marriage cannot be severed from its cultural, religious, and natural roots without weakening the good influence of society," he said according to cnn.com.

In the constitution, people are guaranteed the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Denying them the right to marriage is to deny them their right to pursue happiness.

Banning gay marriage is not fair. The reasons for doing so are not sufficient.

One may say that it hurts the sanctity of marriage. To them I ask: what sanctity?

In 2005, the marriage rate was 7.5 per 1,000 people; the divorce rate was 3.8 per 1,000 people, according to cdc.gov. If marriage is so sacred, then why does it end in divorce fifty percent of the time? Letting same sex couples get married will do no more damage to the institution of marriage than has been done to it already.

"Marriage is defined as a connection between a man and woman," said student Tom Chambers, 20. "I support [a ban]."

Other students are indifferent.

"It doesn't really bother me. I'm not opposed to it. Two men should be able to do what they want; but if little kids see it, they might be confused," said Rich Keane, 21.

Little kids are the focus of the next attack on homosexuals. As reported by The Plain Dealer, Rep. Ron Hood (R), of Ashland, has introduced a bill in the state house to prevent same-sex couples, or even gay individuals, from adopting or serving as foster parents. He says studies prove kids do best "in homes with a mother and

father."

The newspaper has since printed many letters in protest of the bill.

 "This bill is McCarthyism in the guise of caring for children," said Lynn and Marc Singer in a letter to the editor.

Hopefully, this all will cause people to open their eyes and allow equal rights for everyone.

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