Gay marriage remains one of the most contentious topics in the United States, and much media attention has been turned on our state to see how our legislators will vote. It is hard to tell whether approval in the Legislature will bring about the change here: Gov. John Baldacci has, in the past, opposed such a move, though he now is said to be undecided. And, knowing the citizens’ power to bring forth change through referendum, we can almost guarantee that passage and executive approval of a measure would undoubtedly stir the seeds of a petition drive.

The argument breaks down along numerous lines, and the answer isn’t as black or white, cut and dry as one would expect.

Those opposed not only cite religious arguments against gay marriage, but data as well. More than one opponent has indicated that surveys show children of gay couples and those living outside of a traditional nuclear family do not fare as well in society.

Proponents dismiss such arguments, stating that just as much data counteracting the suppositions of the opposition exists, and that much of the information is based on stereotypical or biased rationales.

Finally, there is the issue of same-sex unions when it comes to its potential impact on business. With new laws bring new rules regarding insurance and liability coverage, for example, which could help build business presence in Maine, or hurt what already exists.

What also exists, however, is a double standard.

We have always been told, from elementary school up, that every American receives the same rights and benefits under the law regardless of race, color, creed, and, sexual orientation.

We understand the arguments based on religion or personal preference. Questioning one’s faith is a fruitless activity.

But this is a legal, not faith, issue.

Religious officials for centuries have chosen not to marry a couple for a variety of reasons within a house of worship. That choice won’t change with a law permitting gay marriage: The state has no right to dictate as such.

Simply saying no to gay marriage as a legal and binding act, however, is not acceptable. Though many will say this isn’t like the civil rights movement, it is. Homosexuality is the last “feared” “minority.”

We don’t advocate religious freedom being squashed. We don’t advocate forced marriages involving homosexual couples in churches.

We do advocate treating everyone, regardless of who they are, as a human being, deserving of all the rights and benefits of society.

We hope the Legislature will see it the same way.

— Questions? Comments? Contact Publisher Drew McMullin at 282-1535, Ext. 326 or  dmcmullin@gwi.net, or Managing Editor Nick Cowenhoven at 282-1535, Ext. 327 or cityeditor@gwi.net.