I remain impressed by Iowa’s political leadership and their resistance to the very loud opposition to the same-sex marriage decision handed down by the Iowa Supreme Court last week. 300 conservative extreme right wing Christian activists staged a demonstration inside the Iowa House Chambers today, breaking the no demonstration in the chambers rule. They chanted “Let us vote” while they were escorted out of the chambers. House Speaker Pat Murphy responded quite boldly. From the Des Moines Register:
“We’re not going to let mob rule rule this state,” Murphy said as people exited the chambers, noting his frustration with the chanting.
Murphy is a longtime supporter of civil rights and believes same-sex couples should have the legal right to marry.
“If you take a look at history, the court’s job has always been to protect the minority. Whether it was women’s right to vote, whether it was an African American doesn’t have to be a slave. An African American has the right to marry a white person. That’s what this is about.”
I understand Iowans. I spent nearly 30 years of my life there. I sincerely believe the silent majority of Iowans are watching this scene by the extreme Christian right in complete bewilderment. Iowans respect individual liberties. They value non-governmental interference in personal decisions, especially decisions as profoundly personal as who to marry. Those who are vocally opposing equality now are more likely to loose their jobs in November 2010 than those who support equality. Studies show politicians that support equality have a higher chance of getting reelected than those that do not. Up and coming politicians are well aware that the demographics are shifting in favor of equality. A strong majority of young voters support equality despite political leanings. Even John McCain’s daughter recently admitted she favors same-sex marriage quality. Every time a new poll comes out, more Americans support equality than those who do not. The tide is turning.
I will be forever grateful for the brave citizens and politicians supporting equality now and in the future. History will smile upon you! Please join me in thanking Rep. Pat Murhpy for his courage today by sending a friendly e-mail. E-mail: Pat.Murphy@legis.state.ia.us
My Hero, Iowa House Speaker Pat Murhpey
