On March 27, Indiana’s Gov. Mike Pence signed “religious freedom” legislation. That legislation is nothing more than hatred under the guise of religion. An amendment was proposed to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation but it was defeated in Indiana’s Legislature. Other states with similar laws do carry that provision.

Because of Indiana’s legislation, my husband and I will no longer consider visiting that state unless change occurs.

When we were married by two ordained clergy on Sept. 7, 2013, 200 family, friends and colleagues served as witnesses. Both of us are contributing members to this great state of Maine by paying taxes, patronizing locally owned businesses, volunteering at church, supporting community groups, serving on boards for nonprofit organizations, and in many other ways.

Maine is again in the midst of considering religious freedom legislation, even though it was defeated during the last legislative session. I implore Maine’s legislators, congressional delegation and other leaders to rise up and ensure that Maine does not follow Indiana.

I also encourage the Sun Journal and its media partners to closely read Maine’s next attempt at religious freedom and if the protection of human rights affiliated with race, gender and/or sexual orientation are not present in the proposed legislation, ask why.

I have served in the public sector for 23 years. I know that elected officials do listen to their constituents and depend on the media to ask the hard questions.

Hatred and the denial of human rights have no place in Maine.

Brian Hodges, West Gardiner