where the land of the free stops making sense

A few good things happened on November 4th: I had breakthroughs in two of my major projects, my mother filed for retirement, and Obama became President-Elect. A very bad thing also happened that day: in California, voters approved Proposition 8 banning same-sex marriages.

Consider these facts:
* Proposition 8 was the most expensive proposition on any ballot in the nation this year, with more than USD 74 million spent by both sides.
* 2008 vote: 52.1% to 47.9% against Proposition 8.
* 2000 vote: 61% for marriage as being only between a man and a woman, Proposition 22.
* The California Supreme Court overturned that measure in its May 15 decision this year, legalizing same-sex marriage.
* Gay couples wedded in the past four months and a half: estimated 18,000.

Now consider this quote from the article:
"This has been a moral battle," said Ellen Smedley, 34, a member of the Mormon Church and a mother of five who worked on the campaign. "We aren't trying to change anything that homosexual couples believe or want—it doesn't change anything that they're allowed to do already. It's defining marriage... Marriage is a man and a woman establishing a family unit."

And finally, five thoughts, no pennies involved:
* Marriage is not monogamy, but polygamy for a lot of Mormons currently living in the US.
* The California Supreme Court could overturn it all over again. Adding a prayer here.
* Refusing marriage to your gay daughter or son will instantly stop them from being gay, no?
* The pursuit of happiness is everyone's concern when it involves homosexual marriage.
* That vote moved from 61% to 52.1% in eight years. How much longer it needs to tip?

Update, November 10th 2008: This is one of many reasons I love Heather B. Armstrong.

dooce on prop 8, originally uploaded by gorgeoux.