The Chicago Tribune on Monday
called on Illinois House lawmakers to follow in the footsteps of the
Senate and approve a gay marriage bill.
In an op-ed titled A
spouse is a spouse, the Tribune, America's eighth
largest daily by circulation, wrote: “The Senate passed the measure
on Thursday, 34-21. We urge the House to finish the job.”
“Allowing same-sex couples to wed
under the law would not devalue traditional marriage,” the editors
wrote. “It would affirm the bedrock values that underlie and
sustain such unions.”
“Marriage promotes stable families,
safeguards the interests of children and rewards committed
relationships.”
“Recognizing same-sex marriages
demonstrates respect for personal freedoms and keeps government out
of the intimate affairs of citizens. More people in same-sex
relationships are adopting or giving birth to children; this provides
the security of a legal commitment for those children. It's the fair
thing to do.”
Referring to increasing support,
editors added, “It's also smart politics.”
“Ladies and gentlemen of the House,
it's your turn to step up.”