op-ed
Christian Grantham was a student activist in the late 90s and later was a consultant to domestic policy forums for the Clinton Administration as well as events for HRC and GLAAD.
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November 13, 2004

Democratic gay activists Mary Bonauto and Marty Rouse recently described "moral issues" voters as "equally troubled by the Viagra ads that play during "Everyone Loves Raymond." It's probably the one where the guy's devil horns return in the shape of Viagra pills outside the lingerie store with his wife. It was sandwiched between all the media on the moral issue of "gay marriage," whatever that is.

Boston Globe reader Ben Lieberman sorts this out.

AS A DEMOCRAT and a supporter of marriage equality I applaud Mary Bonauto and Marty Rouse for their commitment to principles (op ed, Nov. 9), but I fear that they minimize the real political backlash against same-sex marriage. The exit poll numbers they cite may reveal gradual progress toward winning support for full rights for all Americans, but the ballot initiatives in many states mobilized support against same-sex marriage and brought voters to the polls in key races.

Bonauto and Rouse should not cave in because of the election, and those who wish to marry a spouse of the same sex should do so. However, ignoring the political reaction against same-sex marriage will leave Democrats with no way to combat those who intentionally manipulate fear for political ends.
[Backlash against gay marriage - LTE: Ben Lieberman - 11-13-04]