Straying from its reputation of being cautious and conservative, the predominantly Republican court did something slightly out of character and made history. The California Supreme Court declared any laws that discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation equal to discrimination based on race or gender.
But the issue has a chance of being overturned in a predicted November ballot that would allow voting for amending the state Constitution to prohibit same-sex marriages, and thus annul the court’s decision. It took mere minutes after the decision for the campaigners to become vocal about the November ballot. But even California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger did not denounce the court ruling, he even went as far as saying he “will not support an amendment to the constitution that would overturn” the ruling, despite the fact that he had earlier vetoed two bills that would legalize gay marriage.
The question is now whether California voters are willing to vote for such an amendment to the Constitution—in 2000 61% of voters supported Proposition 22, in which California only recognized marriage between a man and a woman. Another issue that is raised is the question of a family and a gay couple’s right to “enjoy dignity equal to that of opposite-sex couples” as Chief Justice Ronald M. George stated and this court ruling may provide precedent for such a plea.
1 comment:
I honestly think that this ruling will not be overturned by the people. California, just like New York, tends to be recognized as the democratic states, and if homosexual marriage is going to be accepted i believe that these two states will be the next two states that will accept it.
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