We’re living in great days

I’ve been watching those same-sex marriages in San Francisco out of the corner of my eye. I think it is some of the greatest political activism I’ve ever seen.

I feel sympathy for people on either side of this issue. There are folks who absolutely can’t see that “gayness” is as normal, if less common, than heterosexuality. I know people like that. I grew up with them, went to church with them. They’re entitled to their opinion. But then, an opinion that expresses the desire of one human being to make another a second-class citizen is not just an “opinion,” it’s prejudice. Still, I understand they are acting out of ignorant fear.

I think same-sex couples should have the privilege of getting married. Frankly, I don’t even care if homosexuality is a choice or not (which is the off-putting argument some homophobes make, “If they can’t help being gay, they should be able to get married, but I don’t quite believe they can’t help it”). If people want to make a public commitment to another human being, let them.

It’s analogous to the days when mixed race couples were forbidden to get married by state law and in a broader sense, to the racial struggle. For example, when people say, “OK, give them domestic partnerships,” I see clear discrimination. Just picture a pair of water fountains of the exact same manufacture, size, height, water pressure. Above one is a sign, “Straights only.”

The thing is, even if and when same-sex people are granted the marriage privilege, it won’t be the end of the struggle for equality.

There will always be people like George W. Bush who are willing to make radical changes in order further their personal predjudices.

RTV No. 16: Your anger or support for anything can best be expressed when your vote gets counted. And don’t forget, if you’ve moved since the last time you voted, you need to change your address at the Washoe County Registrar of Voters.