My Views on Proposition 8

With this post, I hope to explain some of the reasons that I support Proposition 8. Like many other Christians, I believe that marriage is a sacred union created by God. However, this is by no means the only reason that I support traditional marriage. I encourage other Californians to vote Yes on Proposition 8, and at very least, to consider this issue carefully.

Government—and society in general—has elevated the status of the union between a man and a woman for the benefits that this specific union brings. Traditional marriage provides stability to society and encourages a suitable environment in which to raise children. In general, compared to other arrangements, children with a mother and father in the home perform better academically, are less likely to be delinquent, and are less likely to be neglected or abused. I do not mean to downplay the extraordinary efforts and successes of single parents in any way. I only hope to highlight that marriage between a man and a woman has served our society very well. Clearly, no marriage is perfect, but the institution provides great potential for the happiness and wellbeing of the entire family.

In short, government honors marriage between a man and a woman to promote strong families and thus benefit society. Only a man and a woman in a lifelong commitment can bring children into the world and provide those children the ideal level of stability and support.

Proposition 8 does not discourage same-sex couples from living their desired lifestyle. Instead, Proposition 8 simply declines to encourage those unions. There is a big difference between tolerance and respect on one hand and encouragement and promotion on the other. Even if Proposition 8 passes, same-sex couples will continue to receive government benefits through civil unions. Gays and lesbians will also continue to be protected by strong laws against discrimination and hate crimes.

What Harm does Same-Sex Marriage cause?

General decrease in the respect for marriage.

As the definition of marriage expands, there is a serious risk that Californians will value all forms of marriage less and less.

For example, in the years following the legalization of same-sex marriages in the Netherlands, the number of marriages decreased significantly. (1) Today, the Dutch “increasingly regard marriage as no longer relevant” and feel that “marriage is not connected to parenthood and that marriage and cohabitation are equally valid ‘lifestyle choices…’” (2)

Teaching of same-sex marriage in public schools.

If Proposition 8 does not pass, same-sex marriage will be taught in public schools. Without Proposition 8, California parents will most likely have no say in the education of their children about same-sex relationships.

Education in Massachusetts shows what will likely happen in California. In Massachusetts, children as young as 5 and 6 years old are taught about same-sex marriage. The courts have decided that parents in Massachusetts have no right to be notified when or how same-sex marriage is taught to their children. As a result, parents can’t simply have their children stay home for a day and choose to teach their child as the parents feel is appropriate.

Erosion of freedom of religion.

Religious leaders that refuse to perform same-sex marriages will be sued, and will likely be forced to limit their activities. In Massachusetts, for example, Catholic Charities stopped offering adoption services rather than sponsor adoptions against their beliefs.

Decreased freedom of speech.

Just a few months ago, one Oakland city employee was threatened with termination for using the words “natural family.” Increasingly, those that favor same-sex relationships are encouraged to express their point of view while those who disagree are silenced.

These are some of the reasons that I support Proposition 8. This is one of the most important issues in recent years, and I am glad that the voters of California have the opportunity to decide the outcome.

- Nick