Hello, fellow Texans!
You guys probably already are aware of Prop 2 that is on the Ballot here in TX. But, I wanted to just put a reminder out there.
Everyone here that really believes in equal rights, PLEASE, don't forgot to vote in the upcoming election to knock Prop 2 down.
A summarization of what is on the ballot statewide can be found here: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/2005novconsamend.shtml
Prop. 2 HJR 6 Ballot Language "The constitutional amendment providing that marriage in this state consists only of the union of one man and one woman and prohibiting this state or a political subdivision of this state from creating or recognizing any legal status identical or similar to marriage." "Enmienda constitucional que dispone que en este estado el matrimonio consiste exclusivamente en la unión de un hombre y una mujer y que desautoriza, en este estado o en alguna subdivisión política del mismo, la creación o el reconocimiento de cualquier estatus jurídico idéntico o semejante al matrimonio." Brief Explanation HJR 6 would provide that marriage in Texas is solely the union of a man and woman, and that the state and its political subdivisions could not create or recognize any legal status identical to or similar to marriage, including such legal status relationships created outside of Texas.
Why should you care if you are not gay or do not have friends or family that is gay?
For me, I think this proposition is a giant step backwards in civil rights, and could lead to further erosion of rights just for single sex couples. This proposition could lead to an individual having their end of life preferences be ignored if the only person trying to uphold those rights are their same sex partner. (Sometimes things happen when a power of attorney is not enough, or hasn't been wrtten up yet). I think this prop passing is a step in the wrong direction.
I don't have any close friends or family that are gay (or at least that I know about), but I think this prop is bad for the state. This to me seems to be a very basic right that the government is sticking their nose into. It is one thing to fight over whether we should refer to a same sex couple that wants to get married as being a marriage or a civil union, but it is another thing altogether to go out of the way to make it unconstitutional. Doesn't the goverment understand that stable life long relationships are GOOD for the state and country? And another way you could look at it is this: when we stop harrassing gays and lesbians about their private lives, maybe we can get back on track with focusing on important issues like education in this state.
If you agree, please make sure you get out and vote...check with your county and city...here in my county we have early voting, it may be the same in your area, so most people should be able to find the time.
Oh, of course if you think Prop 2 should pass...well just stay home. (just kidding...)
Again, this is all my opinion, which is based very much on my humanist beliefs. I realize not all will agree with me, and I respect that. If you feel you must post why you disagree here, I just ask that everyone debates it in a respectful manner.
(sorry if the formatting is bad...I just cannot seem to get it right today)