An interesting commercial that aired in California during the Proposition 8 debates, has really got me thinking about the comparison between the plight of same-sex couples today and that of interracial couples in decades past.I found an interesting map showing when interracial relationships finally became legal in each of the states. It may just surprise you. American views of interracial marriage have likewise changed drastically over the past 40 years.
Now check out this map showing the status of same-sex marriage statutes across the states. Will the next 40 years bring the same societal changes for same-sex couples that the past 40 years have brought for interracial couples? What do you think?
I think that although this is really hot topic that peoples attitudes towards same sex marriage (much like interracial marriage) will definitely change dramatically over the next few decades. However, like interracial marriage there will ALWAYS be those who remain adamantly opposed to it regardless of the social acceptability of it.
ReplyDeleteWhile I don't see why there should be a law against interacial or gay marriage, I don't see why the tone of the commercial makes people look uneducated or cult-like if you believe or value something different from the political correct and or popular view. One's values need not be "right or wrong" just different. If we can understand another's values and beliefs, we know why they act one way or another. I may not act the same way because of a different set of beliefs. Ridiculing and denigrating one's beliefs do not help persuade one to change one's mind. Can we appreciate one another's rights and values without subscribing to the same ideas. Can we see why a value and belief might direct someone's actions without denigrating that value? We have a long way to go before we expereince tolerance on either side of many issues.
ReplyDeleteMy prediction is that gay marriage gradually will gain more acceptance in the 50 states, but that there won't be a Roe v. Wade-like Supreme Court decision forcing all states to accept and incorporate it into their laws. The court's makeup would have to change dramatically for there to be a SC decision of this type anytime soon.
ReplyDeleteInstead, the equal protection clause of the Constitution will be used to chip away at discriminatory practices in states with a reasonable chance of favorable court rulings.
California will eventually allow gays to marry. It just will take more time than its proponents expected.