Without Same-Sex Marriage, There's No Marriage Equality (Page 2 of 2)

There is a large segment of the LGBT population that doesn’t fit into the mold that most mainstream queer organizations represent. Many have issues at a very basic, human rights level, related to rural isolation, the struggle to put food on the table, the search for appropriate health care for Transgendered folks, racism, the lack of affordable housing and the concerns for safety on the streets and in prison. The members of our community who are the most exposed are the ones who often are receiving the least resources. 

Gozemba offers that “Marriage equality is not the end of the [gay rights] movement, it is one piece addressing a powerful institution.” Again, as the one looking for common ground, I think that marriage is a possible step in the right direction but that media and organizations are focusing too strongly on this one issue at the expense of the myriad of others facing our community.

My concern is this focus is a product of capitalism, and when the various ring-leader organizations — such as the Human Rights Campaign — shift their focus to the ugly issues facing queer Americans, they risk losing funding. Additionally, much of the focus comes from the membership, which is comprised of dues-paying members who, thanks to the racist make-up of our “free market” economy, are predominantly white.

When all is said and done, I am for same-sex marriage. I am for equal rights for all and believe that the Constitution exists in the American government to provide rights to people, not to take them away.

For more information about the book, check out: Courtingequality.com; the book is also available on Amazon.com.

I would like to hear from you. What are your thoughts on same-sex marriage? I am also working on a future Ranting and Raving piece titled “Ask a Gay Guy.” If you have any questions or comments on this or future columns, e-mail Tony at tmurchis1@msn.com.

* The views expressed in Commentary do not necessarily reflect those of Knoxville Voice.