Reflections on DOMA's repeal

The recent decision by the US Supreme Court in striking down the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)  rocked the nation and set us on a new course for the federal recognition of same-sex unions.  The implications of this open the door for granting military benefits to all legally married partners.  In fact, this summer the Secretary of Defense publish some guidelines outlining military benefits being extended to married same-sex couples.

Once the 5 to 4 decision repealing DOMA was announced,  there was both great jubilation for some and greater disappointment for others.   In Hawaii, Civil Unions have been possible since 2011, joining other states that permit same-sex unions.  Civil Unions in the state of Hawaii accord some legal benefits to same-sex partners, but do not carry the full "weight" of marriage.    In Hawaii and other states, same-sex marrriage continues to be a point of controversy and public debate.  As a nation, of different beliefs and traditions, we are not of one mind on this matter.  From a faith perspective, there is considerable debate within traditions as to the merits of traditional marriage and same-sex marriage.  People of deep faith disagree passionately for a variety of reasons.

What we should be clear on is that we are a nation, that, despite an imperfect record in slavery and civil rights, seeks to live into the ideals of the very Declaration of Independence that we recently celebrated this July 4th and on the 5th anniversary of the March on Washington, DC and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's "I Have a Dream" speech.

What is clear from a faith perspective is that we all are called to respect the dignity of one another.  The Book of Genesis teaches that we are all created in God’s image and as God breathed life in the lungs of Adam, it is God who also gives life.  As we celebrate the birth of our nation, even in the midst budgets and public policy debates;  as imperfect as we are,  we are still endowed with the many blessings of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Inalienable rights given to all, by a loving Creator who calls us to seek “liberty and justice for all.”