There has been so much in the news recently, both here in Canada and in the U.S. about the ‘struggle’ of homosexuals to have their ‘unions’ recognized by the Government.
It seems that you’re either for it, or against it. Arguments and accusations are flying on both sides of the debate while emotions run high. For the record, if asked where I stand on the issue, I do not support Government recognition of gay marriage. Before you call me a homophobic, – it’s probably not the reasons you’re thinking.
This Globe and Mail article reports that in Quebec today, the Court of Appeal has upheld a lower court ruling that it’s discriminatory to not allow gays to marry. I guess I just don’t really get it.
Two guys have been living together for 30 years, now want to plunk down cash for a license. Personally, I think gays have just done themselves a greater diservice. Why the heck do we even need to go to the state to purchase a marriage licence at all?
What the heck does the state or any government for that matter have to do with my relationships? Instead of this being a victory for gays, I see it as a further regression towards more state regulation over our relationships, regardless of what form they take.
I for one couldn’t care less if two homosexuals, regardless of their gender, go and rent a hall, invite all their friends and publically declare their love for each other. But in order to feel good about the whole thing, you have to pay your local municipal office for a licence? Why?
And why stop here? If loving relationships are what this is all about, then why prohibit someone who wants to marry two people at the same time as some Mormons in Utah practice? What about polyamorists who believe that you can love many?
I really don’t understand the need some folks seem to have for the state be involved in their relationships. And I truly don’t understand how a licence that I think now costs about 60.00 should be required to make you feel happy about your relationship.
If you want to get married with your traditional or religious customs, do it. You want your Church involved, by all means. But why the heck do you need the approval of the state? And a licence of all things, that costs money? I could think of a lot better ways to spend 60.00, that’s for sure. If you’re getting married in a church, you could tip the preacher an extra bit of dough, or use the money to get a better room the night of your honeymoon, if you want.
I admit that almost 20 years ago, as a naive sort that I was, I happily walked into my local municipal office and plunked down some money for a marriage licence. But I don’t see any benefits gained from holding that licence. And in fact, ten years later, it wasn’t worth much anyhow…
Even though marriages break down and divorces happen, and there may be a need to go before some magistrate to settle disputes about property, and the care of children, there’s no need for a marriage license to make this happen, is there?
I just don’t get the need for a state to recognize your relationships. Personally, I’d prefer if they keep their noses out of mine.