Answers previous letter

Dear Editor,

In an effort to curb Mrs. Berg’s fears (Star-Observer letter July 30) about same-sex marriage in Wisconsin — we still don’t have same sex marriage in Wisconsin, Mrs. Berg.

By definition, it would have to include two people of the same sex. It does not, as willed by the Wisconsin voters.

Instead, the state recognizes domestic partnerships, which are strictly secular. Moreover, domestic partnerships that receive only 20 percent of the legal benefits that married couples do hardly constitutes a belief that legislators have somehow ignored or tricked Wisconsin voters.

Instead, they took a pragmatic step towards evening the playing field to a portion of the population that pays taxes, submits to the rule of law and dies in wars like the rest of the greater population.

This group however, does not receive the same legal recognition that the rest of us benefit from. It seems hardly fair in my mind to squabble over a mere 20 percent without some sense of shame.

I applaud our legislators for taking the ethical path towards social equity instead of allowing the majority to tyrannize over the minority. A great American tradition has certainly been upheld.

Rest assured, Mrs. Berg, your voice was not ignored and democracy is still in tact.

Tags: same sex marriage, opinion, letters