Jonathan Rauch says in 2009 we've reached the beginning of the middle of the debate on gay marriage. These are the significant changes over the last year:
* Pre-emptive strikes have failed -- the national marriage protection amendment went nowhere and courts aren't jumping into the fray to enforce gay marriage. Neither side will knock the other out of the ring. It will be a tough slog.
* Legislators are taking over from judges -- the claim that gay marriage was being shoved at us by anti-democratic activist judges no longer works (now it is anti-democratic -- only the people can vote on something this important -- activist legislatures).
* The idea of same-sex marriage has been mainstreamed -- no longer the fringe idea and it is opponents who are playing defense (alas, that's still a winning hand).
* There's a backlash against the backlash -- many straights put on the brakes in fear of a backlash, but with the backlash against the Calif. vote, straights now see our rights as the next big civil rights issue.
The top ten stories of gay rights in 2009:
10. Obama extended some benefits to partners of federal employees.
9. Gays, Lesbians, Bisexuals, and Transgenders added to federal Hate Crimes Act.
8. Colorado and Nevada pass limited domestic partner laws.
7. New York Senate rejects gay marriage.
6. DC legalizes gay marriage.
5. Calif. Supremes uphold the marriage ban.
4. Washington state passes everything-but-marriage, which is upheld by citizen vote.
3. Wisconsin passes DPs despite constitutional ban on gay marriage.
2. Maine passes same-sex marriage law, which voters overturn.
1. Iowa, New Hampshire, and Vermont legalize gay marriage (and through legislation).
Mexico City has legalized gay marriage! It takes effect in March. Tourism companies are now putting together packages that include flights, hotels, guides, ceremony, and banquet.
this year has been amazing for gay rights, i think we are in the epicenter of our movement.
ReplyDeletehappy new year!