Today, my husband and I are celebrating our one-week wedding anniversary but I am not happy. I am not unhappy with our marriage. I am unhappy because people whom I love and call my friends and family cannot enjoy the same privileges that I have. More below the fold...
It’s. Not. Fair.
Ken and I were married in a state that treats my gay brothers and sisters as second-class citizens. In 2004, Ohioans passed a law meant to deny fellow Americans the right to pursue happiness stated in our Declaration of Independence.
Ken and I live in Michigan. In 2004, 59% of voters decided to take the rights of their fellow Michiganders away. I am sure that Michigan would love to have my gay brothers and sisters taxable income and campaign donations BUT when it comes down to individual happiness, they have no need for the LGBT community.
I am simply frustrated. I have been married only one week but I know that there are same-sex couples that have shared a life of love longer than Ken or I have been alive. Why can’t same-sex couples share their joy with the rest of the world? Why aren’t loving same-sex couples deserving of the congratulations and the blessings that Ken and I experienced? I sit here with mixed feelings. I live in a country that expects its citizens to love it unconditionally and yet, people who love each other and love this country can’t get this country's unconditional love in return.
What does it say about our country? What does it say about us as a people and as worshippers of liberty and individual freedom? So-called lovers of liberty continue to claim ignorance knowing that certain segments of this country continue to aid and abet inequality through discriminatory laws. I know the country is changing slowly but it is not fast enough for those of us who want equal rights for every man, woman, and child in this country.
As I said before, we are truly happy but there is a growing gnawing ache of uneasiness inside of the both of us. At this time in our life, Ken and I are genuinely happy but we cannot truly enjoy our blessing unless all of our people are truly equal.
Update: Thank you for putting me on the rec list!!! My husband kenrwhittaker is in this thread too! He is a passionate advocate for equality and oh yeah, the President of the Young Democrats of Michigan!!! Say hi to Ken here!!!
Update #2: Thank you for all for all of the well wishes and the great advice. Ken and I are usually lurkers but we love your opinions, strength, and the way Kossacks rally together for a common purpose. Again, we thank you! XOXO