Students and faculty filled theCotillion Ballroom on Thursday, Nov. 11th to discuss the topic of GayMarriages.
This discussion was the lastinstallment of the lecture series, sponsored by the Southern UniversityLiterary Society on the topic of homosexuality.
Dr. Marx, a Southern Universityprofessor introduced the speaker and informed students of the purpose for thelecture series.
“The Literary Society wants tocontribute to the intellectual and cultural atmosphere of Southern, as well asencourage students to participate in various activities around campus,” Marxsaid.
Dr. Darryl Scriven began thediscussion by the posing the question, “Gay Marriage, Yes or No?”
Scriven then mentioned theconstitutional amendment that was recently passed banning gay marriages andgave the audience some reasons why people are against gay marriages.
“Some people believe that marriageis a sacrament, and since the church does not honor them they should not beallowed,” Scriven said. “People also feel that they should not be forced torecognize untraditional marriages.”
Some students agreed that gay marriagesshould not be allowed, but many others felt that it was unfair to ban them.
“I think that gay marriages are nodifferent than interracial or interdenominational marriages.” said LaTashaJefferson, a freshman from New Orleans.
Another argument presented in favorof gay marriages was that it violated rights granted to citizens under the 14thAmendment of the Constitution.
Dr Albert Samuels ended thediscussion by stating that he felt the issue of gay marriage is a never-ending issue.
“This is an issue of two world viewsclashing,” Samuels said. “Those who believe in the ideology of what isconstitutionally right and those who believe in what is morally right.”
The Literary Society plans tocontinue their lecture series throughout the remainder of the school year withvarious topics.
