BishopAccountability.org
	Equity: Cruz's Commitment to Equal Rights Shows Courage; We All Should Follow Suit Guampdn October 20, 2009 http://www.guampdn.com/article/20091021/OPINION01/910210326/1014/OPINION What Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz, a former Guam chief justice, did in revealing that he was abused by a priest as a child took courage. Some may argue it was a strategy in the ongoing debate on Bill 185, but it would be wrong to characterize it as such. The vice speaker's actions will hopefully encourage other victims of sexual abuse to speak out. The debate on Bill 185 shouldn't diminish the struggle of victims of abuse. Our community can't be allowed to create an environment that discourages abuse victims who come forward. The bill would allow two people, including same-sex couples, to enter into domestic partnerships. The fact that Cruz came forward with a private and horrible experience characterizes the passion that he has for this issue. Ultimately, our community should support and the Legislature should pass Bill 185 because the measure extends equality and fairness to more of our citizens. It's not right to deny certain privileges and rights to some people because they're in same-sex relationships -- just as it's wrong to deny those privileges and rights based on someone's religion, sex, age or race. Bill 185 asks for equity and the acceptance of differences in our community. Isn't that the foundation for peace? Do we not want a community that celebrates diversity and accepts differences? It took many years for our country to recognize it had discriminated against women and minority ethnic groups. But it did, and the wrongs were rectified. Now we must recognize that it's wrong to discriminate against another group for reasons that they cannot change. Our island, our country needs to live up to the American promise that all people are created equal and should be treated the same under the law. It's the right thing to do.
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