Proposal would define marriage in Mississippi
By By Steve Gillespie / staff writer
October 18, 2004
Some people consider it an affirmation of a person's religious beliefs, a way to protect a single, important word and even an attempt to deny basic rights to a certain group of people.
Either way, Mississippi voters will decide Nov. 2 whether to ratify a proposed state constitutional amendment that would make marriage legal in the state only if between a man and a woman.
The amendment also would forbid the state from recognizing any same-sex marriages that take place in another state or a foreign jurisdiction.
People in Meridian and Lauderdale County have different views on the proposal.
Rosalie Leo, 63, of the Center Hill community in Lauderdale County, is fine with same-sex relationships having the same rights as a marriage. But she doesn't want the term "marriage" used to describe it.
She said she believes couples, including same-sex couples, should have the same benefits with insurance or when one spouse needs to speak for another during a medical emergency.
Byron Brown, 45, of Clarke County, said he has heard about plans to hold a rally in support of the amendment in Clarke County on Oct. 28. He said the Bible specifies that marriage is only between a man and a woman, and for that reason he will vote for the amendment.
Ceil Bunyard, 45, of Meridian, said the amendment that will appear on Mississippi's ballot is about freedom.
Mississippi voters will decide Nov. 2 whether to ratify or reject a proposed state constitutional amendment that would forbid same-sex marriages. Here is what the proposal specifically says.
Constitutional Amendment House Concurrent Resolution 56
This proposed constitutional amendment provides that marriage may take place and may be valid under the laws of this state only between a man and a woman. The amendment also provides that a marriage in another state or foreign jurisdiction between persons of the same gender may not be recognized in this state and is void and unenforceable under the laws of this state.
