Recent Rulings Reflect a Wave of Social Change

As Pride Month is coming to an end and we approach the celebration of our nation’s independence, the recent Supreme Court decisions have sparked conversations about important topics. Two cases dealing with marriage equality for same sex couples; one dealing with affirmative action in college admissions; and another affecting an important provision of the Voting Rights Act.

No matter what your political persuasion, where you stand on these issues, it is clear that we are in a time of great change. Or maybe more rapid change. For example, marriage equality is an issue that has been around for a long time, though for different kinds of people in different circumstances. Nearly 50 years ago, a great many people in the US believed it was wrong for people of different races to marry and most states had some law against it. When the Supreme Court struck down the Virginia law that stood in the way of Mr. & Mrs. Loving, it was a shock. But this and many other Civil Rights era decisions seemed to create openings for change.

Now, many people are celebrating the decisions of the Supreme Court on marriage equality. This may reflect changes in social attitudes and behaviors that have already taken place. Change for individuals means that the conversation is less about rights and more about love. Regardless of orientation, it is important to cultivate love. Love is the source of deeper pride.

Photo originally printed in the Sacramento Bee.