University of Northern Iowa students gathered at an event last week to listen to and discuss two sides of legalizing same-sex marriage.
The American Democracy Project hosted the event Feb. 24.
"The purpose is to help you be more willing to talk with someone you disagree with," said Gerri Perreault, co-chair of the American Democracy Project. "We're trying to encourage more openness."
The two panelists at the event were Brad Clark, the campaign director of One Iowa, an organization advocating for gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual rights, and Reggie Hovenga, the family life pastor at Heartland Vineyard Church in Cedar Falls. Perreault said that although the panel only featured two speakers, viewpoints on same-sex marriage are diverse.
"We recognize there's more than two sides to any issue," Perreault said.
Clark spoke first about growing up gay in Iowa.
"Like a lot of young people in our state, I faced a lot of challenges when I came out," he said.
Clark said coming out as a student at Central College created controversy in his campus community, especially after he was asked to leave his position as a president of a college Christian organization. Ultimately, though, Clark said the experience was freeing.
"I could be open about who I was," he said.
According to Hovenga, it is possible to turn away from being homosexual. He cited the example of two friends who have "both come out of the homosexual lifestyle" and are now in heterosexual marriages.
Hovenga spoke about a phone call he received from his sister a few years ago, when she told him she was a lesbian and worried she would go to hell.
"(Jesus) loves you, and he is pursuing you," Hovenga said.
Hovenga also spoke about his understanding of God's vision.
"I think the Lord would say he has so much better for us. He's created a unique bond between a man and a woman that can only exist between a man and a woman."
Clark said that he had a hard time understanding why some religious organizations opposed the ruling.
"Religious organizations are exempt from the states' civil rights code … This does not change any religious (organizations') right to choose who they will and won't marry," Clark said.
Hovenga said he would not perform a wedding ceremony for a gay couple.
"It's what we believe. That's not how God created you to be."
Clark also discussed his religious beliefs.
"I think Jesus loves me just as I am … I have to think there is a God who loves me as I am and created me as I am," Clark said.
Audience members with different opinions on the issue of same-sex marriage said participating in the discussion helped give them more perspective.
"I think it's good to educate everyone … and to have a more peaceful solution," said Allison Jacoby, a social work major.
Beth Nowell, a social work major, said parts of the discussion were upsetting to her.
"I bit my tongue a lot (during the event).
"There were a range of questions asked that helped me have a better understanding of both sides," she added.
Panel analyzes two sides of same-sex marriage
Published: Monday, March 1, 2010
Updated: Monday, March 1, 2010 12:03
 "Photo: BRICE JENSEN/Northern Iowan")
BRICE JENSEN/Northern Iowan
Reggie Hovenga and Brad Clark were the two panelists at a Feb. 24 event that highlighted different sides on the issue of same-sex marriage.
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Iowa has the highest percentage of unemployed African Americans in the United States. Number 50 out of 50. How can that be for a state that blows its own horn for being the most free of discrimination in the United States?The fact is Iowa has a horrible civil right record. In the Quad Cities I know of a minority owned business that was not allowed to be in an over 100-member business referral group. The business referral group was (is) composed of over 100 white-owned businesses that refer one another for each others benefit. But this business was denied three times over the course of three years to join. The business filed an Iowa Civil Rights complaint. After 18 months, the Commission stated that this referral group had every right to discriminate as it is a "private club" and does not fall under the ancient "public accommodations" laws. Is this the mark of a forward thinking civil right state?Sorry to reveal the dark underbelly here on civil rights, but this has everything to do with the powerful supporting a group that has more legal clout and spending power (and can bring their big bucks into the state for marriage, which is a good thing for Iowa as tourism is a weak spot) while the weak - those with families and children, and of other color and race - are pushed aside and left, forgotten and homeless, and with no voice.
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increased continually. Most of them are sexy.
It would appear obvious that YOUR church would not be particularly welcoming to Gay individuals, particularly Gay couples, and that YOUR church is opposed to supporting marriage equality for Gay Americans. But other Christians and congregations are more supportive and accepting. Are you suggesting that only YOUR views should apply to the formulation of public policy?Why is it that Straight couples are encouraged to date, get engaged, marry and build lives together in the context of monogamy and commitment, and that this is a GOOD thing … yet for Gay couples to do exactly the same is somehow a BAD thing? To me this seems like a very poor value judgment.
Here is my advice to you: Your faith is a personal matter. And if your personal faith informs you that Gay relationships (no matter how monogamous or long-term) are anathema, you are welcome to conduct your personal life as you see fit. You do not have the right to demand that persons of other faiths do the same.
When marriage equality for Gay couples finally becomes a reality (and it eventually will), I can promise you with 100% certainty that it will not affect your life, your marriage, your church, or your children ONE BIT. You will never have to worry about being denied a job or your love because of YOUR sexual orientation. Your church will never be forced to marry Gay couples, any more than it is forced to marry non-Christian couples.
Perhaps the best thing for you to do when it comes to your dealings with Gay individuals and couples is simply to obey The Golden Rule: Treat them as you yourself would wish to be treated.
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