Friday, October 24, 2008

A Maestro Speaks


Violinist Itzhak Perlman reminding us the Proposition 8 is about nothing more than equal treatment under the law.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Prop 8 will take away the first amendment rights of religous people who don't agree with homosexuality. It's alreay happening in Canada. Once same-sex marriage is legalized activits will sue anyone that doesn't agree with them. That is what "scares" religous people into not supporting same-sex marriage. You should put the blame on those people for having such a struggle to legalize same sex marriage.

Tom said...

"Prop 8 will take away the first amendment rights of religous people who don't agree with homosexuality."

No, it won't. In fact, If you read the May 15 Supreme Court decision, the justices say the EXACT OPPOSITE: "[A]ffording same-sex couples the opportunity to obtain the designation of marriage will not impinge upon the religious freedom of any religious organization, official, or any other person; no religion will be required to change its religious policies or practices with regard to same-sex couples, and no religious officiant will be required to solemnize a marriage in contravention of his or her religious beliefs."

Anonymous said...

I hope that you're right. I hope that activists don't appeal that. I know that prop 8 has a great probabilty of not passing, and in that case I hope that no one else loses their rights in the process. If we're lucky this will all eventually lead each and everyone of us to happiness, whatever our beliefs may be.

Tom said...

What I hope for most is that all the ill will and even violence will subside -- if not before the election, at least after. I just watched a tape of a school board member in Bakersfield punching a No on 8 supporter at a street action. I've also read of a Yes on 8 supporter being punched by someone with the contrary view. Both these actions are lamentable and sad.

As far as religious freedom goes, I think you can rest easy -- marriage equality has been the law in Massachusetts for over four years, and no church has been sued yet. Combine that with the strong language in the Supreme Court decision and I think all will be fine.

Anonymous said...

You seem well read on the subject Tom, and I appreciate that about someone who speaks out about issues. If freedom of religion is threatened I hope we can depend on you to help defend it.

Tom said...

I am always there to defend the Constitution!