News Article

Defending 'Traditional Marriage'

Foundation, Family Forum Urge Support For State Amendment

Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Melvin Mason
Daily-News Record

Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling and members of two state conservative family groups say a traditional marriage amendment on November's ballot must pass to defend traditional Virginia values.

More than 200 people gathered Monday at James Madison University's Festival and Conference Center for a "Salute to the Family."

In addition to applauding 17 couples married for at least 40 years, the event also served as a fund-raiser for the Family Foundation of Virginia and a call to defend traditional marriage in the state.

The Family Foundation and the Valley Family Forum are urging passage of a state constitutional amendment declaring marriage as between one man and one woman. Voters will decide on the amendment on Nov. 7.

Message In 'Clearest Voice'

Bolling, the event's keynote speaker, said traditional marriage is a "Virginia value" that must be protected.

Although Virginia does not recognize same-sex marriages, passage of the amendment is necessary, Bolling said, in case "activist judges and misguided legislators" try to change the rules. He pointed out that Massachusetts had a ruling last year that made same-sex marriage legal in that state.

By voting for the amendment, "we will say in the clearest voice that marriage is between one man and one woman," Bolling, a Republican, said.

Bolling said the amendment will not have any "unintended consequences" as some opponents of the measure have argued. It will not, for instance, affect people from purchasing vehicles or property together, he said. He added that Gov. Tim Kaine, a Democrat, is mistaken in his opposition to the amendment.

"All this will do is protect traditional marriage and say it is between one man and one woman," Bolling told the audience. "Will it pass? That depends on you."

Republican Attorney General Bob McDonnell said traditional marriage is "the bedrock of Western civilization" and the best way to raise children. He asked attendees to "be very positive" in their support of the amendment.

But not everyone at the JMU event supported the Family Foundation's message. Lesbian couple Linda Royster, 58, and Barbara Kinsman, 76, stood outside the Festival Center with a sign with pictures of their family, including three of their grandchildren. The couple, who have been together for 20 years, said they were not permitted into the event.

"We want respect and love for our family," said Royster, who lives near Bridgewater.

For additional information contact Randy Marcus at 804-786-2078 or 804-814-7117 (cell) or randy.marcus@governor.virginia.gov.