Peter LaBarbera, president of Americans
for Truth about Homosexuality, has called for the repeal of Illinois'
civil unions law on Wednesday, the first day the law takes effect.
“Homosexual behavior is always wrong,
according to vast scope of Judeo-Christian history, so it is tragic
to behold the State of Illinois – or any government entity –
recognizing immoral same-sex relationships and treating them like
marriage,” LaBarbera said.
Couples
began lining up for licenses at county clerks' offices on Wednesday,
but a one-day waiting period makes Thursday the first day couples can
tie the knot. Governor
Pat Quinn and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel will attend a Thursday event
at Chicago's downtown Millennium Park celebrating the civil unions of
30 gay and lesbian couples.
“Moreover, for the City of Chicago
and Gov. Pat Quinn to celebrate homosexuality with a mass Civil Union
ceremony June 2nd is an act of hubris and defiance toward the Creator
that mocks His wonderful plan for real marriage – the sacred union
of a man and a woman to produce children and family,” LaBarbera
said.
“The anti-Christian Civil Unions law
must be repealed.”
LaBarbera noted that Catholic
Charities of Rockford has ended its state-funded foster and adoption
services in order to avoid the possibility of being forced into
placing a child with a couple in a civil union. He called the
development “proof” that “homosexuality-based 'rights' and
religious freedom cannot co-exist.”
The law “will drive out the free
expression of religion and morality, which must include the right to
oppose sexual behavior historically regarded as disordered and
sinful,” he said.