marriage equality receives unprecedented air time during debate
David on Jul 24th 2007
Last night brought a different kind of debate. Hopefully, you were able to catch it on CNN. Americans were able to submit video questions to the candidates via youyube.com And, the topic of marriage equality came up. Twice.
The first marriage equality related question was asked by a reverend:
Senator Edwards said his opposition to gay marriage is influenced by his Southern Baptist background. Most Americans agree it was wrong and unconstitutional to use religion to justify slavery, segregation, and denying women the right to vote. So why is it still acceptable to use religion to deny gay Americans their full and equal rights?
Watch the video clip below:
Is it me or does Senator Edwards contradict himself? He states that it is wrong to justify political actions with religion, but reaffirms his position against full marriage equality.
Marriage equality came up again when a lesbian couple in Brooklyn, New York asked, “Would you allow us to be married to each other?” It was nice to see names and faces attached to a question. It made their question personal.
Kucinich answered the question beautifully:
Mary and Jen, the answer to your question is yes. And let me tell you why.
Because if our Constitution really means what it says, that all are created equal, if it really means what it says, that there should be equality of opportunity before the law, then our brothers and sisters who happen to be gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender should have the same rights accorded to them as anyone else, and that includes the ability to have a civil marriage ceremony.
Yes, I support you. And welcome to a better and a new America under a President Kucinich administration.
Watch the clip below:
The topic of marriage equality received an unprecedented amount of air time during this debate. It will be interesting to see if the question comes up again during the Republican youtube debate. It will be hard to say “no” to a couple like Mary and Jen without coming across as a bigot.
Filed in general |
“President Kucinich.” I like the sound of that. Of all the Democratic Presidential candidates, Mr. Kucinich stood head and shoulders above the rest of these contenders in the area of LGBT equality.
My hope is that his campaign will gather more speed and momentum and propel him to the front of the crowd.
Nobody else came as close as he did in answering this question with all honesty and candor. But more importantly, his answer was the right answer.
The fact that we have one single Presidential candidate that answered this question boldly and in the positive (for LGBTs), shows that we really have made a lot of progress.
Let’s all move forward and elect him President!
Kucinich stands head and shoulders above the other candidates for many reasons; all of which will prevent his being elected.
Pity. John Edwards lost me on gay marriage unless he’s the only candidate left standing in November 2008. Then only because the alternative is unthinkable.
But, John Edwards wife is pro same-sex marriage. Why doesn’t SHE run for President!