Vermont

The Vermont legislature today overrode Governor Jim Douglas' veto of same-sex marriage legislation. Vermont, the first US state to offer civil unions to same sex couples (in 2000) becomes the fourth state to legalize same sex marriage. It is the first to do so in the legislature.


Last week I wrote about the Iowa supreme court's unanimous ruling on same sex marriage. As with that one and with other rulings relating to marriage equality, this legalization of same sex marriage in Vermont is being met with praise and with scorn.

I’m thrilled at today’s news from Vermont. I also know that there are folks who disagree with me.

I came across the website for a relatively new movement. It’s called The Civility Project. Here’s what the project is about:

We are a collection of liberals and conservatives, Democrats and Republicans, blacks and whites, and people of various faith—or no faith— who agree that even
in sharp disagreement we should not be disagreeable.

Here’s the civility pledge:

• I will be civil in my public discourse and behavior.
• I will be respectful of others whether or not I agree with them.
• I will stand against incivility when I see it.

I pray that the continuing conversation relating to marriage equality will be follow this pledge of civility and that it will remain one rooted in love and respect for all.