MUCH OF WHAT occurs in the United States has an impact on or creates an interest in this country. So when the United States Supreme Court last Friday decided by a slim 5-4 majority to legalise same-sex marriages in all US states, it was a landmark decision which we in this region have to take note of. Of course, all that the US does, or represents, must not be followed blindly as history has shown.
No one will expect CARICOM leaders meeting in Bridgetown over the next three days to have this landmark decision as an official agenda item, but it would not be a surprise if it comes up as a point of discussion, even if just over lunch or during a break.
Governments, from Nassau to Georgetown, will find themselves under pressure from gay rights activists who will feel emboldened by what has taken place in another land. The arguments will be not only that we be more tolerant in this region to people with a different sexual lifestyle, but that Caribbean people must not infringe the human rights and civil liberties of a minority group within our societies.
Notwithstanding the unequivocal positions of Prime Minister Freundel Stuart and Minister of Culture Stephen Lashley that the Barbados Government will not be encouraging or sanctioning same-sex marriages, it will not be surprising if they are forced to shift positions.
There will be a powerful lobby, driven by influential external parties and supported internally, to secure a change of heart. Tourism and foreign direct investments will be under threat if this region does not succumb to the defenders of same-sex marriages.
It is an issue which can divide this country, where many supporters of the US law would want us to adopt the American position wholesale, while opponents will dismiss it out of hand, some for biblical reasons. The emotion, anger and wrangle so very evident among the United States Supreme Court justices and the discord across that country clearly point to the problem same-sex marriage will create.
There is no denying that Barbados has its fair share of gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender people. The problem they have always faced is coming out, even if most people know or suspect their sexual orientation. The forthrightness of advocates like Donnya Piggott or Darcy Dear is not always tolerated, and the idea of a same-sex couple in a legally binding marriage is regarded as desecrating sacred ground in CARICOM nations.
The world has changed and continues to evolve. Our young people are more accepting of many things. But, as a people, there are certain values and beliefs we must continue to uphold. The entire society must be involved in determining where and how we move forward on this matter.
