The enactment of Gov. Baldacci’s bill, L.D. 1196, was not by the people of Maine, but by legislators who decided to act against the will of the people as evidenced by two prior referendums.

There is currently protection for all people under our state constitution, and the gay community is afforded the same rights and freedoms as everyone else, (Article 1, Section 1 Maine Constitution): “All people are born equally free and independent, and have certain natural, inherent and unalienable rights, among which are those of enjoying and defending life and liberty, acquiring, possessing and protecting property, and of pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness.”

This bill forces the homosexual ideology on the people of Maine. I believe the majority of people in the state of Maine are tolerant people, as evidenced by the advances made in public sentiment toward the gay community. Mainers do not want to be told how to interact with their neighbors, business associates and friends through legislation.

I do not want this bill shoved down my throat. I am self-employed and have been in business for 20 years, working with the people of Maine, serving male, female, gay and straight without obtrusive laws dictating how I should act and think. Where is the tolerance for those who do not agree with L.D. 1196? I thought we lived in a society that promotes freedom of thinking and the exchange of ideas. Why do we need new laws to control our thinking?

Jeff DeWitt, Durham

Copy the Story Link