AZ Prop 102

Posted by Seth Mcaffe

October 15, 2008

by Seth Mcaffe

While it is perfectly acceptable and encouraged for people to harbor their own beliefs in regards to the proposition, there appears to be some confusion with the actual purpose of Prop 102. We encourage all Arizona residents to seek out the facts before developing an opinion and certainly before casting a vote in November.

Simply put; Prop 102 seeks to clearly define marriage in the state of Arizona as the union of one woman and one man. Prop 102 is not proposed to deny the rights or benefits of any individual, persons or group. Unfortunately, the purpose of the proposition has been the cause of much confusion for many. It should be pointed out that by seeking to clearly defining “marriage” as the union of one man to one woman; it does not imply that Prop 102 has any latent messages or intentions to limit rights. The proposition has nothing to with denying rights.

The single goal of Prop 102 is to offer a clear definition of the word “marriage” in the state of Arizona, any other intentions associated with the proposition is done in error. Prop 102 is simple and clear consisting of only 20 words, the entire proposition strictly relates only to the definition of marriage.

Prop 102 reads: “Only the union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state.” Prop 102 exists for the sole purpose of maintaining traditional marriage in the state of Arizona and in no way was designed to limit or restrict the rights and benefits of any person.

Prop 102 has often been compared to Prop 107, a proposition that failed to pass in 2006. While the propositions are similar to each other, there are still some very definitive differences. In 2006, Proposition 107 included a phrase that read; “No legal status for unmarried persons shall be created or recognized by this state or its political subdivisions that is similar to that of marriage.” Opposition of the proposition considered the preceding phrase to be an attempt to restrict domestic partner benefits of unwed individuals. Prop 102 is different because it seeks only to define marriage as the union between one man and one woman. Furthermore, it has absolutely no ties to domestic partner benefits.

Contrary to the beliefs of many people, the supporters of Prop 102 include individuals from all cultures, religions and political sides. The idea is current that the proponents of Prop 102 are limited to conservative groups and religious enthusiasts, but the fact is advocates of the proposition can be found just about anywhere.

Prop 102 is not liberal vs. conservative issue, or republican vs. democrat issue. It’s about maintaining the traditional definition of marriage. And that’s all it is. The proposition doesn’t seek to deny rights or prevent freedoms for any individual or group.

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Find out more about Prop 102 For Marriage and the significance of voting YES!

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