Gay Marriage and the Black Community

The article "Same-Sex Marriage Bill Posing a Tough Sell to Blacks in Maryland" appeared in the Feb. 16, 2012 edition of the N.Y.T.

In summary, the article describes the debate between the black community and gay rights activists over the issue of gay marriage. Blacks typically vote Democrat, but Democratic support of the issue may disallow more blacks from supporting Democratic candidates in the future.

Most blacks do not support gay marriage. As a Same-Sex Marriage bill tries to pass through the Maryland House, it has revealed just how deep the sentiments against gay marriage in the black community are.

The main issue of contention is religion and most blacks in Maryland are tied to the beliefs of their church. Only two pastors in Maryland have testified for the bill legalizing gay marriage. While whites are heavily in favor of the bill, blacks are strongly against.

My Opinion: This is a microcosm for the issue of gay marriage in the entire United State black community. I find it extremely ironic that blacks don't support gays as they had their own struggle with gaining rights in the 1950s and 1960s.

Additionally, I feel this is one of the primary roadblocks to passing gay rights legislation in the United States. Because of the "faith" element, it is going to be a tough sell to blacks as the article touches on. It will be extremely tough in southern states where whites are against it for religious reasons, as are blacks.

This is an "ironcore" news story because it is a different take on a pressing political issue. That is an aspect of reporting we have discussed in class and it is why the New York Times is such a valuable source of news. Gay marriage through the lens of the black community is an often times overlooked reason to why these bills struggle to get through state governments.

The depth of the reporting is also indicative of what Jones would deem valuable news. Each side and angle is covered with sufficient interviews, perspectives, and statistics. The article also includes the experiences of those involved, giving the reader background and insight into why certain sectors within the black community feel a certain way about gay marriage.

I think more stories taking an alternate take on a mainstream debate will add to the discussion on a given issue. Gay marriage is contested...ok, but what groups are vehemently opposed and why are they opposed when most are beginning to favor the legalization of gay marriage.

Eventually, every state will legal gay marriage. Maybe the black community can relate to their struggle trying to gain rights.