Vote for gay rights

On Nov. 3, Hawaiians will have the chance to eradicate a gamut of gay prejudices by voting to allow same-sex marriages in the state.

An uprising will embark if enough Hawaiians vote against the amendment, which gives state legislature authority to ban same-sex marriages in the state constitution when couples fly to Hawaii to get married, then return to their native state and demand equal rights in their now sanctioned union.

When the state constitution was written in the 1950s, protection was given to unions and minorities and sex discrimination was outlawed. Voting to amend the constitution to specifically discriminate against a distinctive group would be a grave contradiction to its liberal history.

Christianity is the main force behind the amendment, gays' biggest threat in their walk toward equality. One fourth of Hawaiian residents belong to either the Roman Catholic Church or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Whether the bill passes or not, its introduction has given due attention to a group we may one day refer to as one that suffered harsh prejudices and injustices. It is a plight similar to that of women and African Americans, groups that are still working for equality. Instead of a repeat of our oppressive history, let us hope Hawaiians vote to allow liberty for every gay citizen in our country.