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"I
have examined each of the options placed before the Committee, and concluded that
the legalization of same sex marriage is the only option that meets the test of
fairness and equality, and demonstrates true respect for the institution of the
family."
"...
the best way to demonstrate our commitment to family values is to make it possible
for every Canadian to be part of a loving and supportive family. We must not exclude
some people from our definition of a family."
|
Advocacy NewsA
veteran's support for equal marriage
April 10, 2003 Dear Mr. Dickinson and Mr. Curl: Thank you for contacting my office on the issue of same sex marriages. I support recognition of the right of same sex couples to marry. I will be supporting Mr. Robinson’s bill or any other legislation that comes before the House of Commons extending that right. As you know, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights is considering this issue. I have examined each of the options placed before the Committee, and concluded that the legalization of same sex marriage is the only option that meets the test of fairness and equality, and demonstrates true respect for the institution of the family. I am the proud and loving father of two children. My family has been a tremendous source of strength and support for me. I believe that the family unit is the building block upon which our society is built, and that one of the chief purposes of government in Canada should be to strengthen families. I believe, however, that the status quo undermines respect for families. It makes it impossible for thousands of Canadian families to enjoy the same rights and obligations as other families. It excludes tens of thousands of Canadians from legal entitlement to the legal protections and rights that most Canadians enjoy. It implies that persons involved in same sex relationships are lesser persons and contributes to the high levels of suicide in the gay and lesbian community. Furthermore, I believe that the status quo undermines respect for the notion that same sex couples have a responsibility for one another’s financial and emotional well-being. Simply put, the status quo has failed too many Canadian families. It has failed the basic tests of fairness, equality and respect that should underpin Canadian law. I believe that allowing same sex couples to marry will give young gay and lesbian Canadians hope that they will be accepted by society, and encourage them to make healthier choices in their lives. I believe that allowing same sex couples to marry will encourage many lesbian and gay couples to build relationships and families that will be similar in most respects to other Canadian families. In short, the best way to demonstrate our commitment to family values is to make it possible for every Canadian to be part of a loving and supportive family. We must not exclude some people from our definition of a family. We have to support the right of same sex couples to marry if we truly believe that:
Thank you for bringing your concerns to my attention. Sincerely, Lorne Nystrom, MP Regina Qu'Appelle   | |
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In
February, fellow advocates Larry Dickinson and Jason Curl (pictured at right,
New Brunswick)