Dear Editor:
The time is now for same-sex marriage in Illinois.
Currently, discussion is under way among state Reps. Greg Harris, Deb Mell, Kelly Cassidy, Ann Williams, Sara Feigenholtz and state Sen. Heather Steans. While I think these individuals and those they are outreaching to concerning talks about strategy are prudent and necessary I think there is a whole group of gay men and lesbians who may be overlooked, and unheard in these partisan political discussions, and those are the individuals who would directly be affected by same-sex marriage.
The discussion and primary strategy for introducing the legislation, as I understand, appears to be based on the re-election of Democrats to both the state House and Senate. So the priority appears to be getting Democrats re-elected, and not getting same-sex marriage passed.
I understand that while the Defense of Marriage Act is in place, we will continue to be denied full marriage equality, even if it is passed here in Illinois. It is important that we do not link marriage equality to any single political party; indeed, if we are going to build a national consensus around this issue, patrician politics should not be driving marriage-equality strategy.
Marriage equality in Illinois appears to have taken the back seat to the elections in 2012. Some politicians want safety when they stand up for same-sex marriage, and I understand that. However, is that type of leadership we need right now on the issue of marriage equalityor should we expect more?
I also understand the current gay political climate might not welcome voices that differ. My authority to speak out on this issue does not come from a political role, but from my own authenticity as a gay man, and the relationship of trust and genuine concern that allows one to speak not only words of encouragement, but also words of challenge.
Joe Murray
Executive Director
Rainbow Sash Movement