The Prop 8 Trial in California is under way
You can't watch the Prop 8 trial online
The lawsuit challenging the legality of Proposition 8 – the measure which made same sex marriage illegal – has begun. It’s not just the controversial subject matter that is getting people riled up, either. The trial was set to be aired on the internet via YouTube, but the defense blocked any coverage from being released at the last minute. Attorneys for Prop 8 supporters contend their clients, who supported the measure, would be subject to harassment or other harm if their identities were disclosed. Witnesses and counselors alike should get comfy, because they aren't going anywhere for awhile.
The plaintiffs
On one side of the Prop 8 trial, the lawsuit states that California’s ban on same-sex marriage violates U.S. constitutional rights of equal protection and due process. Two of the plaintiffs, the coupls Kris Perry and Sandy Stier, along with Jeff Zarrillo and Paul Katami, have stated, “We and our relationships should be treated equally under the law. Our goal is to advance the cause of equality for all Americans, which is the promise that makes this nation so great.” “Prop 8 used children in their campaign; Protect the Children. … It’s so insulting … to say that my marriage to [Jeff] means a child would be harmed. You put my nieces and nephews– [chokes up] they will tell you they don’t need protection from me or Jeff,” Paul Katami said, who was been partners with Jeff Zarrillo for nine years.
The defendants
On the other side, Charles Cooper, the lead attorney for the Prop 8 trial defense, says 14 million voters in California support “traditional” marriage. Cooper’s says the “basis of marriage is procreation,” and that same-sex marriage constitutes a “de-institutionalization” of marriage. He also argues that same sex marriages would be threatening to children.
“The de-institutionalization of marriage has caused a decline of marriage. … Marriage as a pro-child social institution is weakened. We believe, evidence will show, and testimony will show that that finding of fact will follow,” said Cooper.
Tags: California, Prop 8, same sex marriage