Washington lawmakers motioned to approve the same-sex marriage bill last Wednesday.
For that, we commend them. It takes a lot of courage to take a stand for what’s right. It is not easy to change the way people think, but Washington is on its way.
This action speaks volumes about the times in which we live. No one can fight it; social change is all around us.
This is not simply about supporting gay and lesbian rights, or “silencing” those who think of marriage as a union between only a man and a woman.
It’s about the rights of each and every person in America. It’s about ending discrimination.
All citizens of the United States have the rights to life, liberty and happiness, no matter their age, sex, creed, race or sexual orientation. Nobody should be deprived of his or her Constitutional privileges. Stand in the way of one person’s happiness and you are standing in the way of justice for all.
Our country has come leaps and bounds in the last 100 years. It wasn’t long ago that women and minorities couldn’t vote, schools were segregated by color and being gay was socially unacceptable.
These days, single women run corporations and families, gay pride is felt the world over and we have a black president.
Social change happens.
However, it doesn’t happen without a struggle. Opponents are already challenging the same-sex bill. They are gearing toward a battle that could ultimately leave the decision in the hands of voters. It is discouraging to think that this history-making bill would come so far just to get squashed, but if it is turned over to a decision at the polls, the people can let their feelings on the matter be known.
Either way, congratulations to our western neighbor for taking the brave first steps of what could be a long and difficult journey.
Opinions expressed in editorial and opinion articles are the views of individual NIC students. These views do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Sentinel, North Idaho College, or any other organizations or groups there-in. North Idaho College is not responsible for the accuracy of statements or opinions shared.