The Radical Case for Gay Marriage: Why Progressives Must Join the Fight

[roughsatori]

From the Village Voice: by Richard Goldstein.

For some Democrats, gay marriage is the political equivalent of doggie doo. James Carville has identified it as one of those "icky" issues his party should shy away from. But the Republicans won't allow it. This week, the Senate holds its first hearing on the proposed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage. Test cases are pending in several states. This wedge issue has been wedged, and the only question is the fundamental one when it comes to human rights: Which side are you on?

Usually progressives can be counted on to prod the Democrats, but not this time. Carville's comment has gone virtually unanswered by the left. There's been no crush of Hollywood celebs at fundraisers for this cause. The radical cadres that march against globalization and war haven't agitated for marriage rights. "There is virtually no opposition from progressive groups," says Evan Wolfson of the advocacy group Freedom to Marry. "The problem is a failure to speak out and get involved." From a movement noted for its passion about social justice, this lack of ardor demands to be addressed.

Mind you, plenty of progressives, queer and otherwise, have enlisted in this fight. NOW has filed amicus briefs in several marriage cases. The Leadership Council for Civil Rights is circulating a letter among its members opposing the amendment. The NAACP is expected to sign on. But there is dissent in each of these organizations, and the divisions are sufficiently deep that activists have had to present two options: If you can't support same-sex marriage, surely you can see the danger in an amendment banning it. This approach has been fruitful, but the larger problem remains. "Whether it's due to a failure of progressives to connect the dots or a failure of gay groups to ask for their help," says Wolfson, "there's a curious silence." snip//
more at: http://www.villagevoice.com/issues/0336/goldstein.php

[donco6]

1. Some of the minority groups feel the gay issue . . .

. . . dilutes their message.

Sometimes I wonder if it isn't just homophobia.

[BayCityProgressive]

2. It's homophobia

As someone who is gay it will be nearly impossible for me to vote for Democrats ever again if they back this ammendment.

[roughsatori]

3. Some members of any minority group are selfish with sharing the pie

That is what conservatives want: For us to be divided and fight among ourselves instead of with them. Unfortunately, many heterosexual Democrats would have Gays shut up and "wait," for their equal rights.
The Marriage Amendment will never pass--but if it were to ever pass due to my Democratic Representatives not voting against it as a block and preventing it, I will be forced to join you in leaving the "Party."