Thursday, November 04, 2004

An Open Letter to Jennifer Granholm

Governor Granholm:

I would like to express my concern and dismay over the legality and the social repercussions of the ban on gay marriage that was passed via proposal 2 this election.

This is a church-state issue: as some religions specifically allow for gay marriage, this is a violation of church and state separation by mandating that the only acceptable religious view is that of the majority.

This is a civil rights issue: the ban denigrates homosexuals as second-class citizens, without the same rights as others.

This is a economic issue: this ban cause homosexuals to incur extra cost due to not being guaranteed civil union rights, and this can be a drain on society. As an example, in a traditional marriage, when a working spouse dies, the remaining spouse can still collect benefits. If homosexuals are not allowed these same rights, it can cause an increased demand on unemployment and welfare that will cost the taxpayer.

This is a moral issue: this ban is bigoted and hateful. It benefits no one and only causes harm. It is comparable to laws prohibiting marriages between "mixed" races, or to "separate-but-equal" segregation laws. In this modern age we live in, I am deeply saddened, offended, and embarrassed that we as humans can still have so much fear of those who are different.

I ask that you, as governor, please prevent this amendment from becoming part of our state's constitution. While it may not be popular, it is the right thing to do and I hope that you can see that and feel compelled to act on it.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Andrew W. Stampor