Louis Godin’s letter opposing gay marriage (Oct. 18), and others like his, leave me dismayed when they focus on emotional arguments about religion and keeping things the way they are, particularly when talking about civil rights.

The only way couples can obtain a marriage license is through the state, and the state currently denies gay and lesbian couples the same access to marriage that straight couples have. There are many legal protections around property, inheritance, taxes and spousal benefits that are included with civil marriage that presently cannot be obtained by unmarried couples, no matter how much paperwork or extra fees are involved.

Gay and lesbian couples want nothing more than straight couples — the same access to the same rights and protections for the same reasons.

Gay marriage does not impact straight marriage in any way, nor does it change the dynamic of marriage as an institution. It extends the same civil rights and benefits that are already freely provided to straight couples.

Those people concerned about doing what’s fair and equal for all people in their communities and the state of Maine should vote yes on Question 1 so that all couples in this state can build their lives together with the same secure legal protections that only civil marriage provides.

Derek Green, Lewiston