"Violence Against the Institution of Marriage"

Breaking News (Nov 10th, 2009): “The [LDS] church supports these [equal housing and employment] ordinances because they are fair and reasonable and do not do violence to the institution of marriage,” Michael Otterson, the director of public affairs for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said.

As the youngest of six kids, my five siblings were a bit shocked when I came “out” in 2005 after a 24 year marriage with four grown kids. When I told them that in my relationship with Mickey (my current husband who I met in April 2007) I have found in 2 1/2 years what I could have never had with my wife, they were confused, but willing to “go along.”

When I asked my siblings if, when we visited, Mickey and I would enjoy the same welcome that my ex-wife and I had, they hesitated. What I meant by the question was, could Mickey and I stay in the guest bedroom with the queen-sized bed. They slowly and reluctantly agreed. It was a major victory for my personal family unity within the Mormon Church. This was truly progress on their part.

That was May 2008, and on June 28th the Mormon Church destroyed my family with the famous “Letter from the Pulpit.” That letter ordered every Mormon to contribute of their “time and means” to pass Prop 8. When I asked my siblings in July 2008 how they were going to vote on Prop 8, I had my real answer from my family. To a one, they all said they had no choice. The prophet had spoken. They had to vote against me and support a law that would marginalize me.

The only “violent act” against relationships (marriage) has been done by the Mormon Church.