The equality of marriage

Seattle Times Editorial, 11/20/2003

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court's decision to give gay couples the right to marry was a historic victory for equality.

Legislators in other states, including Washington, should follow the lead of these courageous justices and acknowledge there exists no legal justification to deny homosexuals the rights and liberties granted to everyone else.

In her majority opinion, Massachusetts Chief Justice Margaret Marshall concluded the state constitution "forbids the creation of second-class citizens." It is up to the state's Legislature to determine how to carry out the ruling.

But it would be wrong for legislators to dilute the justices' unambiguous message: Marriage - not some altered form of it - should be available to all.

This page recognizes that more than half of Americans do not believe in gay marriage. Marriage is a sacred institution. It is a symbol of stability and structure in a chaotic, rapidly changing world. It is a powerful notion that conjures deep feelings about love, tradition, history and God.

Critics of gay marriage say the inclusion of same-sex couples in this historical pact between men and women will change it, weaken it, even threaten its existence.

That is unlikely. The fact that gays and lesbians strive to be included in marriage - rather than settling for a watered-down version of it - proves marriage is a robust institution with a significant place in our society.

This ruling is about civil rights. Religious institutions can continue to define marriage as they see fit.

It's a good thing marriage evolves with society. It reflects our values. It wasn't too long ago that interracial marriage was illegal in many states. A married woman was once considered her husband's property.

The Massachusetts high court - and the U.S. Supreme Court in its recent decision to strike down a Texas sodomy law - are moving the country toward a more just place. The day when Congress will be compelled to grant gay couples full civil marriage rights cannot be far off.

That day will not come without angst, anger and ugliness. But it will come. Fairness will eventually prevail.

'Freedom to Marry Rings' image upper right © H. Mitchell.