I am writing in support of Niki Simons. Her brave and heartfelt letter reminds me of something the philosopher Bertrand Russell once advised: “Remember your humanity and forget the rest.” A good thought for all of us when we rush to judge ourselves or others, I think.
Proposition 8 seeks to eliminate the constitutional right of gay citizens to legally marry, a clear attempt to label one group of citizens as second class or “less than” simply out of irrational fear and prejudice. I have never met Niki Simons, but I think that if we all look around, there are plenty of Niki”s in our lives. They are not only our neighbors, but our co-workers, our friends and our family.
They do not threaten my marriage. They do not threaten my beliefs. They are not “less than” me. They deserve our respect and our compassion, an equal place in our communities, and to be judged only “on the content of their character” as Dr. King once said. To change Mr. Russell”s words just slightly, let”s remember their humanity and forget the rest. I hope that others will join me in support of all the Niki”s in our lives. Vote No on 8 ? No on Hate.
Roy Dufrain Jr.
Kelseyville
