Separate but Equal – Is It Possible? What Will the California Supreme Court Decide?

Looking through Google News this morning, I found the story that I was looking for. There, in the U.S. section, between a story highlighting the severe thunderstorms in the Southeast and one about the investigation about a Marine allegedly throwing a puppy off of a cliff, was the headline “State Supreme Court takes up same sex marriage.”

I had known that today, March 4, 2008, the California Supreme Court would hear arguments regarding the constitutionality of banning same-sex marriage in the state.

Not Surprised by the Governor’s Veto of Same Sex Marriage Bill

Unfortunately, I can’t say that I’m surprised that Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed AB43, the bill that supported same sex marriage in California. Granted, a small part of me had hoped that the governor would have a change of heart like Jerry Sanders, the Republican mayor of San Diego, but in my heart, I knew he would veto the bill. Am I disappointed, of course. But, this is the second time that a bill like this has made it as far as the governor’s desk. Who knows, maybe the third time is a charm.

I also need to remember that the California Supreme Court is currently investigating if Proposition 22, which was voted on in March 2000 and bans same sex marriage, is unconstitutional. So my friends, there is still hope.

Don’t Veto Same-Sex Marriage “for the People” until You listen to ALL of the People of California

California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger stated that he will veto bill AB43, which would recognize same-sex marriage in California, because he wants to support the March 2000 vote for Proposition 22. Today, as a member of “the people of California,” I submitted an email to Governor Schwarzenegger. I urge you to do the same. Below, is my email. Let your voice be heard! Email the governor (and select “Gender-neutral marriage.\AB00043”).

Dear Governor Schwarzenegger,

Who Made Them the Moral Authority About What Rights I Should Have?

I am not a politician, nor do I have any desire to be. In fact, other than the fact that I am registered to vote and that I tend to exercise that right, I am not political in any sense. Yes, I tend to lean towards the left and look for gay-friendly politicians, but it doesn’t mean that I have never voted for a Republican.

That being said, I don’t like politicians and courts who deem my relationship any less important than the relationship my siblings share with their spouses. I have been with my partner for over six years and we were married in 2003. For those of you who are ready to tell me that I can’t possibly be married to another woman, please allow me to clarify. My partner and I held a ceremony officiated by a minister in which we declared our love for one another in front of our family, friends, and God. We also registered as domestic partners with the state of California. So, no, literally I am not married; however, in my mind, I am married. Unfortunately, although I share a loving union with my wife, I do not get the basic rights that come with federal marriage.