Share your reaction to the gay marriage decision
Massachusetts's highest court ruled 4-3 that same-sex couples are legally entitled to wed under the state constitution, but stopped short of allowing marriage licenses to be issued to the seven couples who challenged the law. The court ordered the Legislature to come up with a solution within 180 days. What are your thoughts on the issue?
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I applaud the decision and look forward to the day when the SJC rules for true freedom in allowing people to marry any one they want; their relatives, dogs, cats, goats or their refrigerator.
Andy, Stoughton
Now the real farce begins. What will the Legislature do to make sure that this goes as smoothly, and conservatively, as possible into implementation? It is a recognition, but the legislation can label many of us as 'outsiders' by not granting the name of marriage to it. SJC did not make a stand on how 'equal' we are. How are we going to respond to any other legal issues around our partnerships? What about wills, testaments, visitation rights, alimony, immigration, etc.? Obviously is it great and welcome news, but we have a long road to pave!
Yuri, East Boston
I am so proud of my friends (one of the plaintiff couples), GLAD, and the SJC. They are my generation's civil rights heroes. Reading the other comments in these pages is very moving, especially those by heterosexual people whose support is very important and appreciated.
Paul, Cambridge
For those that are angered about this ruling: First off, the phrase "one man and one woman" was meant to stop bigamy, not same sex marriage. Next, religious or personal feelings have no place in US law. "all men equal" means the same law for everyone who is a human. And lastly, if you don't like it...don't do it. Same-sex marriages doesn't direct affect your right "to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness". And before you judge them and say, "God says that's a sin." Remember, he also said judging thy neighbor is also. So you might want to stay quiet and let every person deal with God themselves when their time comes.
Ivan, Cambridge
I am against the ruling not because I'm against homosexuality but due to the presidence it will set. What is next Polygamy, family inter-marrying?
Patrick, Boston
If you think its right. Some day when your alone, with your thoughts think, and you will really know what is right.
paul, weymouth
This ruling is a victory for human rights. Any of the ignorant bigots out there who don't like this, please feel free to move out of state.
Lisa, Newton
This truely marks a sad day for Massachusetts and the United States as we begin the road toward legitimizing abberant behavior. Pet lovers can't be far behind in their zeal to legalize their desired union with fluffy.
Raoul, Lakeille
This is great for gays everywhere, hopefully a big step towards equality not only in the law, but in society. It was interesting to read the responses prior to making one, if only to feel proud of my community because of the large majority of responders displaying tolerance. As far as the arguments against, I do not see how this could in any way threaten my own family life or my own marriage vows. If anything, I hope my children will continue to grow up in a society that is accepting and loving rather than fearful and hateful. And fire your accountant if you still pay the marriage "penalty" tax this April, tis no more.
Bill, Andover
I wish to remain anon, because it is clear which way the wind is blowing. They will come for my type soon enough. In a culture that values sensuality and pleasure higher than anything else, this was just a matter of time. This fight was lost years ago. If you watch your TV, and you pass off the immorality you see there is frivolous or irrelevant, then you have no right to be shocked by today's ruling. It was a logical ruling, permitted and encouraged by people too complacent and too pleasure seeking to care. Myself included. I turn a new leaf here, I swear off TV and the thought-programming pop culture which I have sat in for far too long. Like Lot and his wife, though, can I leave it without looking back? I pray God for the strength, and I rededicate myself to the cause. With no promises of being victorious, I will still take up the banner and join the fight, though I am bleak about its outcome. Reach to save those who will listen, but weep for the people, as we are surely self destructing as a nation.
anon, West of Boston
