Tuesday, May 3, 2011

U GO GURL

In Ally’s article, she describes Proposition 8, a ballot proposition and constitutional amendment passed in the November 2008 state elections. This added a new provision which provides that “only marriage between a man and woman is valid or recognized in California. Also, she states that supporters of Proposition 8 are now fighting against an injunction passed by U.S. Chief Judge Vaughn Walker, a measure that banned the enforcement of this Proposition.

Based on her blog post, it’s obvious that she’s for same sex marriage, as she regards measures such as Proposition 8 as “unfair and unjust...preventing love, the basis of marriage, from prevailing.” Although, I would’ve liked a little more information on the court proceedings with African-American judges regarding civil rights, and the anti-immigration laws in Arizona.

I feel she makes a legitimate point though, that we have no right “to judge what we can not possibly know” Although Judge Vaughn Walker issued the injunction banning the proposition, it’s impossible to know whether his sexual orientation had an effect in his decision making. I feel, everyone who has had a personal experience (meaning everyone) will have a certain point of view on an issue. I mean seriously, it’s inevitable. You grow up, you experience the world, you form your morals and values, and you acquire your views, biases, and stereotypes. The people who make these decisions are in their position because they have earned it.

HIDE N SEEK CHAMP, 2001-2011

On May 2nd, Obama announced the death of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden. Near the White House in Washington and ground zero in New York, celebrations erupted following these reports. The point of my (very late) blog is that: Is it wrong to celebrate bin Laden's death?

Martin Luther King Jr. said "I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that."

In an article on CNN.com, many religious leaders of different faiths remark that no one should be rejoicing in the death of a person, even a hated enemy. Now, while the man who created the al-Qaida terrorist network that killed 3,000 people in the attacks of 9/11 is dead, I feel people are confusing the difference between celebrating the fact that justice has been done, and celebrating death itself. The two sentiments should be kept apart.

America felt feelings of disgust when they witnessed the people in celebration of the deaths of 9/11, yet we take to the streets chanting "USA! USA!" Is this not nearly the same reaction? I'm glad that he's been found (in his $1 million "mansion"), and although this may not bring complete closure to the families who were affected, at least it gives them some peace.

Update: Actually, just found out that my quote from Martin Luther King Jr. was made up. You get the point though, I'd say it's an applicable quote, no matter who might've made it up.