Open Forum: Funeral, DOMA bills are separate issues

As legislators we deal with issues that, on the surface, appear to conflict. For example, I support a bill that prohibits the disruption of a funeral, burial service or memorial service, and creates penalties for those who do. I also support the Defense of Marriage Act.

The debate regarding funeral protests stems from the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kan., who are traveling throughout the nation targeting burials of U.S. soldiers. The group is saying that God is punishing the United States for accepting homosexuality by killing soldiers in Iraq.

Funerals are private moments in order for families and friends to honor someone special in their lives. It is not a place for political or social protests regardless of one's beliefs. To me, this legislation is not about homosexuality, it's about respect for the dead.

Meanwhile, I also support the Defense of Marriage Act, which is legislation requesting Minnesotans to vote on a state constitutional amendment defining marriage as a union between one man and one woman.

When one looks closely at the issues, they'll see there's no conflict. Although both have a connection to homosexuality, the two are all about respect respect of two important institutions marriage and burial.

Rep. Paul Gazelka

District 12A

Rural Brainerd