Gay Marriage Is Safe In Massachusetts

Massachusetts lawmakers today voted down a proposed (state) constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. Remember, Massachusetts is the first and only state in the country to even allow same-sex marriage. This is good news, but what's really interesting is this story about one lawmaker who changed her mind.

Representative Gale Candaras, who was formerly for the ban, stated:

"For me, what all this comes down to is this: Same gendered couples are taxpaying, law-abiding citizens, who are important community contributors, well-loved and well-respected by their families, friends, neighbors and employers. They deserve and are entitled to the same legal protections enjoyed by all others citizens of our state. This is the law of the Commonwealth, articulated by our Supreme Judicial Court in Goodrich v. The Department of Public Health, decided in November, 2003."

Isn't that great? Someone who actually makes sense!

She goes on to say:

"Despite dire predictions, there has been no adverse societal impact from this decision and most people now express little concern about same gender marriage."

Well, I wouldn't go that far. While there has been no adverse societal impact, many people still express concern, believe me. Mitt Romney, for example. But it seems that the civil rights issue trumped the values issue, and perhaps, just perhaps, gay marriage will be allowed to become a non-issue in Massachusetts.