The Iowa Supreme Court has upheld the right of gays and lesbians to marry in a unanimous ruling. The ruling will take effect in 21 days, meaning same-sex couples can begin marrying April 24. Iowa becomes the fourth state in the nation and the first in the Midwest to legalize same-sex marriage. In case you’re wondering, in order for this decision to be overturned by a constitutional amendment, it would require approval in two consecutive sessions of the state legislature, followed by a public vote.
To read more about the ruling, go here.
Nice to end the week on such amazing and historic news. The right can no longer claim gay marriage is the liberal cause of extremist “activist judges”. And because of Iowa’s constitutional amendment process (which is similar to MA’s), there won’t be a Prop 8-style battle until 2012, if at all. Think about how much progress will be made by this incredible victory.
In an email to my Aunt in Iowa, I wrote:
Make sure your house insurance is paid up, darlin’. Cause gawd is gonna “smote” Iowa for it’s wicked ways! I’m predicting tornados and basketball sized hail. Imagine! Men and Men. Women and Women. In loving, affirmative families. Married and everything!
The opinion says:
“Our constitution does not permit any branch of government to resolve these types of religious debates and entrusts to courts the task of ensuring that government avoids them,â€
I went on to say,
The Republicans –who pretend there are two, rather than three branches of Government– will call this “Legislating from the Bench”. But refusing to allow the majority to oppress a minority (via a vote) is a part of the Constitution. We are a Nation of Laws, and the Legislative Branch is there for a very good reason. A three-legged stool with only two legs will not stand.
God Bless America. God Bless Our President!