Same-sex marriage is still a big debate in America today. What people do not realize is not allowing same-sex marriage impedes civil rights more than you think.
In healthcare, same-sex couples are not allowed the same benefits in hospital care that straight couples are allowed. I’m going to use the case of Lisa Pond here for an example. Janice Langbehn and Lisa Pond had been together for 18-years when Lisa collapsed playing basketball with their three children. Lisa was dying. Her partner and their three children were not allowed to see her before she died, and never had the chance to say goodbye. Even though Langbehn had durable power of attorney, and even adopted their three children, the hospital still would not let them in. Lisa Pond died alone.
This is not the only example, but for once I will leave you to do the research. And, it's not just healthcare, same-sex couples have to pay more taxes because they are considered single in the eyes of the law, we have no social security survivor or spousal benefits. There is a lack of protection from estate taxes and no joint tax returns.
Why would we choose this for ourselves? I love my country so much that I want to give the government MORE money than other people? It is a shame this nation is divided by religious beliefs. What happened to “with liberty and justice for ALL?” or “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that ALL men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Until same-sex couples can be completely equal in the eyes of the law, I will still have this blog, and I will keep fighting for what's right...MY RIGHTS!!
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I have to say I agree with you Liz. Marriage isn't easy, period! I find it very sad to hear of situations where life and death decisions are made because of "blood" relations - and not by a beloved partner. -Jody (Can't figure out the "post comment" thus I am "anonymous". Help, Em!! -Aunti B
ReplyDeleteLet us not forget the hundreds of other federal benefits, such as the right for spousal immigration. I fell in love with and legally married a Danish woman over 10 years ago, but I need people to understand that I was forced to chose love over country. That's a choice nobody should ever have to make.
ReplyDelete-Mary Munro Poulsen, Jaegerspris Denmark
Thank you so much for sharing your story, Mary. Please keep loggin on and giving your two cents..I realy appreciate it! :D
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