I don't really talk a lot about politics, because I know everyone has their own opinions and often talking about them will only lead into arguments and disappointment. However, something happened recently that I think is worth mentioning. California's Prop 8 was overturned. What many people don't understand is how it took Californians, who are supposedly liberal, so long to make this happen.
I live in an area where it is okay to be yourself. Whether you are black or white or any shade in between, whether you are gay or straight (or anything in between), whether you wear a fur coat or nothing at all, you are usually celebrated for your differences, not shunned.
However, there are many rural areas in California. They are generally Republican and/or more conservative. There is Orange County, who is fairly wealthy and a little more elitist. I grew up in a red county. There were some race issues and being gay was not okay to many people in the area. So this is why this decision took so long. There are still a lot of people who feel uncomfortable with the idea of same sex marriage.
All I can say is: congratulations to all the people who can now get married, for whatever reason they want to do it. Whatever color you are, whatever your sexual preference, and whatever you are wearing, you should have the same rights as everyone else.
Do you live in a state where same sex marriage is legal? What do you think about the issue?
I live in an area where it is okay to be yourself. Whether you are black or white or any shade in between, whether you are gay or straight (or anything in between), whether you wear a fur coat or nothing at all, you are usually celebrated for your differences, not shunned.
However, there are many rural areas in California. They are generally Republican and/or more conservative. There is Orange County, who is fairly wealthy and a little more elitist. I grew up in a red county. There were some race issues and being gay was not okay to many people in the area. So this is why this decision took so long. There are still a lot of people who feel uncomfortable with the idea of same sex marriage.
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| 2012 voting by county |
All I can say is: congratulations to all the people who can now get married, for whatever reason they want to do it. Whatever color you are, whatever your sexual preference, and whatever you are wearing, you should have the same rights as everyone else.
Do you live in a state where same sex marriage is legal? What do you think about the issue?
I do love that you brought this up. Also being a Californian, and a very open minded person, I'm so happy that the Court ruled the way that they did. Some of the words of the Justices were so powerful and wonderful. I love that people didn't give up on what they felt was right.
ReplyDeleteIt also sheds light on how easy it is to sway people's minds in an election, even if it is against popular opinion.
Thanks for this explanation--I always think of Calif. as liberal and so yes, it was hard for me to understand. I am thrilled that the supreme court made this move. Basic human rights. And yes, I live in Maryland (as blue as a state gets) where we have same sex marriage. Love it!
ReplyDeleteI was thrilled when it was approved in MD. I spent most of my life in MD so I'd rather claim that as my home than PA, haha! I live (and actually have always lived) in small, rural areas where my thoughts are very much opposite than many of those around me.
ReplyDeleteChicago is a very left-leaning city. I'm not sure we've ever had a Republican mayor. And, I'm not sure I could ever live in a super-conservative area, because I am socially very liberal. But, like California, Illinois is mostly rural and has a lot of very conservative counties. Civil unions are allowed in our state, but gay marriage is not. The legislature was supposed to vote on it a few weeks ago, but felt they didn't have enough votes, so never brought the bill forward. I like to think the two SCOTUS decisions yesterday will serve as encouragement and motivation to those states that are on the fence about allowing gay marriage.
ReplyDeleteIt hasn't passed in NC yet, but I"m hoping that after yesterday it will.
ReplyDeleteI live in a COUNTRY where same sex marriage and same sex benefits have been legal for several years now. So many "issues" in the US are non-issues in Canada and I am so so thankful for that. I get SO MAD about people who are against same sex marriage - WHY DO THEY CARE?! It has absolutely no impact on their life! Argh.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more with you Kyria. Love is love. Simple as that. I can't believe that it took CA so long!
ReplyDeleteIt was legalized in Minnesota last fall, I am not sure about NC because I don't follow politics here since I'm not really vested in living here.
ReplyDeleteIn general, I pretty much never engage in any discussions about my political beliefs because I am usually in the minority in my view (at least in the blogging community). Which I don't mind, I just don't enjoy debating politics so I stay out of all debates!
I was so excited to hear this! We lived in OC for almost 15 years and my husband and I talked about how hard it would be in certain areas for this to happen. Thanks for bringing this to the attention of everyone!
ReplyDeleteI've always lived in states where it was very controversial. Glad to see that CA is helping to pave the way, as usual. :)
ReplyDeleteI live in the worst area of the county for this (good ole KS) but totally understand, the only difference is we have like 3 blue counties so I have no idea how long the road will go! Glad that CA got to this point and I tell my kids that when people have watch parties for a law, than you should be excited, because we all should care about the laws!
ReplyDeleteFlorida has not yet legalized gay marriage, which is just very, very sad. I don't get into politics because I don't have a huge interest in it (I should, but I just don't) but I definitely hope more and more states get with it & legalize gay marriage.
ReplyDeleteThe title says it all.. Very nice read.. Well written.. Thanks..
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Unfortunately it is not legal here. Hopefully, soon.
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