Editor, Commonwealth:
I do not know whether Gov. Phil Bryant tossed and turned during the night while contemplating his decision on House Bill 1523, but I do know that I support his resolution.
House Bill 1523, “The Protecting Freedom of Conscience from Government Discrimination Act,” should have gone into effect simultaneously with the right for same-sex couples to marry. I am in favor of rights for LGBTs, but I also feel strongly about an individual or a group of people having the right to demand respect and honor their religious beliefs and their moral convictions. There are certain things that should not be imposed on society as a whole without confirmation. Being forced to accommodate the LGBT community is definitely one of those things.
HB 1523 does not state that same-sex couples cannot be married. It merely protects the people who do not want to participate in their activities by granting them the right to say “no” without penalty.
Religion plays a gigantic role in many people’s lives in the state of Mississippi. Therefore, why should they be convicted or condemned because of their spiritual beliefs? There are multitudes of people and organizations that would perform any needs necessary to accommodate anyone who desires them regardless of their belief or sexual orientation.
I cannot understand why there is so much controversy concerning HB 1523 from the public. There are so many other issues that should be focused on.
This bill does not give people the right to discriminate. In my opinion, it prevents discriminatory actions. The religious groups kept silent and allowed prayer to be taken out of school once upon a time. Thank God they decided to speak up this time and stand up for their rights and beliefs.
The LGBT community has had a loud voice in the last few years, and it has been heard. Many needed changes have taken place to support it positively.
Therefore, I have no objection to certain members of society protecting their right to uphold their religious beliefs and moral convictions through the passing of a bill. So I say, “Amen” to HB 1523. May it be long-lived. Thank you, Gov. Phil Bryant.
Glenda Hampton
Tchula
