You may be waiting for the final match-up in the greatest cases tournament, but wait until next week when I get back from the Frickey thing.
Several Indian tribes in recent years have considered whether to authorize same-sex marriage in their respective lands — Coquille and Suquamish have said yes, while Cherokee, Navajo, and Little Traverse Odawa (!?!?!) have said no. What do you think?
I say yes because the LBG community has been around longer than any of us in this generation. There are stories about these communities and it is said that they will always be around. Why refuse them the right that we should all have?
I believe that my tribal culture had a place for all people. Tribal governments taking action that legislates who a person can or cannot marry is acting out of internalized oppression. Legalize and let these poor folks come onto our homelands and get married. Good business for us, and a good example for a country that lacks sorely in grace and compassion.
My tribal culture provided honor for all people whatever their personal spiritual beliefs. We also accepted diversity in how people lived their lives or how they created a family. Marriage is their decision.
As nations we need to heal this part of our circle – the abuse and alienation of our Two Spirit Relatives. Part of that healing is to open our tribal courts to include same sex unions as marriages. We are the answers to our ancestors prayers – the proof of that is that we are here….let’s use this gift of life in a good way, the best possible way and leave a legacy of living on or the most healing values we are called to live in; Compassion.
These are all good comments. I am surprised in a way the Navajo Nation rejected same sex marriage – as I understand it (I am Coos, not Navajo, so I am no expert) the Navajo recognize 4 genders (two of whom modern society would define LGBT). Seems to me most tribes accpeted “Two Spirit” people – the language and specific roles change from culture to culture, but still acceptance seemed the norm.