I was touched by a comment made at last week’s (2/15) Hot Topics Shabbot. The topic of the evening was gay, or as stated there, equal, marriage rights. The drosh was a presentation on the legal history, complete with an explanation that the issue is more about, “equal” marriage rather than “gay” marriage, using some of the same arguments which are used in the “separate but equal” decision.
After services there was a panel discussion featuring two couples (one male, one female) who had been married at CBI. Just to be clear, these marriages are not valid under California law although I dislike the description of them as “illegal.” “Illegal” implies that they are in violation of the law and that someone can be punished for them. It is more accurate to say that they are not recognized by the law.
I’ve drifted off my point which was one little comment which came out of the Q&A portion of the panel discussion. A member of the audience pointed out that there are gay congregations in the Los Angeles area, as well as the San Francisco Bay area. If a gay congregation emerged in the Sacramento area would members of the panel be inclined to join it? Barbara B., a member of the panel, responded by talking about how much she enjoys being a part of a heterogeneous congregation. The panel proceeded to talk about how being gay in our congregation does not set one apart.
The panelists are members of our community who are known, respected, and loved for themselves rather then part of a group separated out, voluntarily or otherwise. They are part of our congregation family, as am I – a married, straight man (just to partake in full disclosure.) I am proud to be part of a family which includes so many, different and wonderful people.
