Editorial: Same-sex marriage crucial for civil rights

Gay rights and the issue of same-sex marriage is one of the most
important civil rights issues of the 21st century.

In an era and a land where freedom and equality are supposedly
two fundamental ideals, voters have systematically denied members
of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community the right
to experience what everyone else takes for granted.

In California, same-sex marriage is illegal because of
Proposition 22, approved in 2000. Recognizing the injustice of the
current law, a coalition of students has begun a campaign to
reverse the state’s position.

The primary goal of the Student Coalition for Marriage Equality
is to have a ballot initiative approved for the 2006 election,
reversing the Prop. 22 ban and extending full marriage benefits to
same-sex couples.

For now, that means gathering signatures and making sure the
public becomes aware of their efforts.

The fight for same-sex marriage in this country suffered massive
setbacks in the November national election, when 11 states
officially banned same-sex marriage.

Perhaps following that step backward, there will now be a step
forward. One can only hope students will be successful where others
have failed. Students should take the time to sign this petition,
and more importantly, vote, should their efforts succeed.