Affirmation: Gay & Lesbian Mormons

Marriage is a Civil Right

Gary and Millie Watts

by Gary Watts
May 2006

As the parent of gay children, I am saddened and disappointed by the LDS Church's endorsement of the proposed constitutional amendment that would define marriage as "the exclusive union of one man and one woman."

Once again, the church has decided to cross the gulf separating church and state in an attempt to impose its belief on a minority for what is deemed a moral issue.

I believe my gay children have the right to find a partner and live in a committed, monogamous relationship just as my straight children do.

Marriage in this country is a civil right and should be available to all citizens who desire it. Religious institutions have the right to perform only those marriages that are in accord with their own belief and practice. They do not, and should not have the right to impose their religious belief on those who believe otherwise.

It has been just more than 100 years since the church found itself on the other side of a marriage controversy and was adamant at that time that its constitutional rights were being trampled by the majority. In 100 years the church has made the journey from the "trampled" to the "trampler."

See also:

Affirmation Responds to the Religious Coalition