Though I understand that opposition to same-sex marriage may not be simply rooted in prejudice, we must also not let religious beliefs stand in the way of another fundamental aspect of Canadian society: equality.

Allowing gays and lesbians to wed will ultimately have no effect on the ability of one to practice their religious beliefs, yet forbidding equal marriage in the name of religion will continue to marginalize gays and lesbians, denying them the rights they deserve.

This country has a long, and I believe proud, tradition of protecting the rights of minorities. A true democracy is not one that simply adheres to the will of the majority, but also ensures that every member of society has their rights protected.

I can only hope that the rights of gays and lesbians will be another step in recognizing the equality of all Canadians.

Jeff Sweeting,
Pickering