Proposition 2 defines marriage as union of man & woman

Posted: 10/14/05

Proposition 2 defines marriage
as union of man & woman

By John Hall

Texas Baptist Communications

AUSTIN–A proposed Texas constitutional amendment on the Nov. 8 ballot defines marriage as between a man and a woman, but it does not affect the civil rights of homosexuals, said Suzii Paynter, director of citizenship and public policy for the Baptist General Convention of Texas Christian Life Commission.

Texas law already bans homosexual unions, but proponents argue a constitutional amendment would protect the law from legal challenges.

As it will appear on the ballot, voters will vote for or against Proposition 2, which reads: “The constitutional amendment providing that marriage in this state consists only of the union of one man and one woman and prohibiting this state or a political subdivision of this state from creating or recognizing any legal status identical or similar to marriage.”

Though some proponents of the amendment are concerned a low voter turnout could sway the vote toward a minority viewpoint, Paynter believes the constitutional addition will pass easily.

Church leaders are mobilizing their congregations to get out the vote. Several pastors have called the CLC recently to discuss issues that will be on the ballot, she noted.

“We stand for the marriage amendment,” Paynter said. “We know our people will vote for it. People will get out and vote.”

In a letter to Texas Baptist pastors, BGCT Executive Director Charles Wade indicated the marriage definition matches the beliefs of the convention.

“Texas Baptists have taken a clear stand recognizing that homosexual behavior is a sin and that we absolutely believe that marriage is the union of a man and a woman who pledge their love and fidelity to one another,” he said.

Marriage is a key societal issue, Paynter said. Strong relationships undergird healthy marriages. Those couples are more likely to raise emotionally healthy children.

The CLC also is promoting Hope for Home, an initiative that encourages healthy families. People need to focus on strengthening the institution of marriage,” Paynter said.

“Marriage is no fairy tale,” she said. “There are so many people out there in our community that have been part of broken relationships and abusive relationships. We have a responsibility to heal families.”