Structural Violence and Proposition 22

California State University, Dominguez Hills
University of Wisconsin, Parkside
Latest update: February 26, 2000
University Disclaimer
Faculty on the Site.

"Thank you for your correspondence regarding Proposition 22.               

Please be assured that I have given your comments and suggestions serious consideration.  As I made clear in my campaign, I have always opposed same-sex marriage.  However, I have also made it clear that I oppose wedge-issue politics that have divided one Californian from another and made scapegoats of certain groups of our citizens.  Proposition 22, in my opinion, is clearly in that category and I have announced my opposition to the initiative.

I believe it is an unnecessary distraction because current California law already clearly and unequivocally limits marriage to a man and a woman.  The placement of this kind of emotionally charged issue on the ballot serves mainly to stir up prejudices and hostility  - sometimes with tragic consequences.         

As Governor, I will do everything within my power to honor the dignity, humanity and privacy of every Californian, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender or sexual orientation.         

 I appreciate the time you took to write and express your views."