Should heterosexuals boycott marriage?

[mangopuppy]

Abstract This essay asks a seemingly simple question: Can it ever be ethical to take a benefit that is invidiously denied others? Posed in such stark terms, the question seems to admit only one answer: "no." But many, many heterosexuals voluntarily accept the benefits of marriage that are invidiously denied to their gay friends and family. This

Comments

[typefiend]

My better half and I have discussed this topic in detail a few times, and we agree that it seems against our own belief system to marry when the institution is being denied to a demographic of the population that seems to really value its meaning.

As comedian Wanda Sykes once joked, if people are so worried about protecting the institution of marriage, they should be fighting to ban divorce, not preventing people in love to unite.

[mangopuppy]

I am in agreement with you.

I also think that many folks find total renunciation too much. That's why I appreciate this essay, it explores a number of different options including making a statement at the wedding, donating money from the wedding to marriage equality, etc.

Really, I wish we'd do away with marriage in its current form. I'm much more a fan of civil unions for all (people who want to "marry" can still do so in their churches and temples.)

[camella]

it would be nice if all straight people wouldn't marry so non-straights could get the right to. but that won't ever EVER happen.

So instead i think it's important for the bride and groom to just state their opinion of gay marriage, etc.

charlise theron has stated that she refuses to marry her (male) partner until all gay people are also allowed to marry.