In response to Bob Bethel's letter "Scripture is clear defining marriage," March 29, I implore everyone to remember that the First Amendment states that government shall not make laws respecting one religion over another.
The 14th Amendment states that no state shall deny people equal protections under the law. The Declaration of Independence proudly proclaims that all men are created equal. In other words, it doesn't matter what one's holy scripture says when we speak of law.
Mr. Bethel's religious convictions are his own and should not be used to dictate law or the lives of others. There are many religions/sects with different views on many topics. Legally, we cannot enforce any of these. In addition, there historically were many cultures that allowed same-sex marriages and, in many places, marriage had little to do with religion.
Marriage equality, the right for consenting adults to marry whomever they love regardless of sex or gender (or religion or ethnicity) does not infringe on those rights and morals of any that oppose such equality. Churches have long been allowed to marry, or refuse to marry, as they see fit. Additionally, if someone believes same-sex marriage is a sin, they need not marry someone of the same sex.
As the United States continues to strive for equality for all citizens, let us remember that one's traditions or religion or God is not necessarily the same as someone else's. This country was founded on the ideal of freedom from religious tyranny and for all to worship, or not, as they see fit.
Xendara Haas
Ravena