Threats to Marriage Equality in New Hampshire

Coming off of an agonizing defeat in Maine earlier this month, The Eagle-Tribune news ran an article this morning titled “NH Gay Marriage Law Challenged”, which details two legislative proposals that would overturn the new law that allows same-sex couples to wed.

“One of the two proposals is a bill that bans same-sex marriage, but allows for civil unions. The other is a constitutional amendment calling for marriage to be defined as the union of a man and a woman. But both could derail what Rep. Jim Splaine, D-Portsmouth, has fought for years to achieve.”

Splaine himself is confident that neither of the measures will go into effect: “adoption of a constitutional amendment would require approval from 60 percent of the members from the both the House and Senate to be placed on the ballot. Then, two-thirds of voters would have to adopt the measure.

‘I don't see that happening," Splaine said. "I think the Republicans are just looking to make an issue of it,’ referring to the GOP backers of the proposals to repeal gay marriage.”

Unfortunately, it’s difficult not to be wary, since equal marriage rights are so threatened at this time. It’s especially concerning that Rep. Jordan Ulery, (R-Hudson) is quoted in this article using such antiquated – and frankly, insulting - language to describe same sex couples and GLBT people.

"’Marriage isn't an equal rights issue’," he said. ‘I don't believe it's a right at all. It's a privilege.’

And later: “Ulery also said he doesn't think gay couples should be overly concerned if the new law is overturned.

‘I don't think they have any right to feel threatened," he said. "No one is threatening their lifestyle.’

Civil marriage is absolutely a right – a right that should be extended to all citizens in a free nation. You can bet that the ACLU of Massachusetts will continue to fight in every possible way for inclusivity and equality.