don't hate on bush. 1st off he's gone 2nd he really had a crap shoot butt that's not my point. my government teacher explained it perfectly when he said that government is in a constant rotation. when reagan was elected it was cool to be a republican and everyone was tired of the democrats and their lies. now the tables have turned and the reverse is true. and eventually that will switch. it's just how it works. neither party stays in power forever which is why the united states kinda rocks.
Oooook. Fisrt of all, how is same sex marrage bad? And what harm does it cause to the scociety? Also, i agree, why do the majority get to decide the fate of the minority? They need to replace all these clised minded people in the senate and get some people who actually care about others. And the constitution states we have "life, liberty, and the persuit of happiness" by not passing that law, theyr denying our rights.
Heh, I just don't understand how marriage is considered a right. Where is that in the constitution? Calling gay people a minority is just ridiculous when you compare them to a racial minority. It would be like calling a group of people with a particular fetish a minority. Comparing the fight for gay marriage to the civil rights era is rather degrading to those that actually lived and fought hard for their racial equality.
@PersonguydudeWB You sir, need to troll harder. The 14th amendment, ladies and gentlemen, states (ahem) "No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the PRIVILEGES or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." (capped for emphasis) The priviges of marriage cannot be denied. Thats unconstitutional.
Who says that gay marriage is a privilege? I have not seen that written down anywhere. For instance, your driving license is a privilege, and according to the 14th Amendment cannot be taken away without "due process of law". If as in your mind, gay marriage is a privilege, what constitutes due process? A vote by the people? A judgement from some court?
@PersonguydudeWB Marriage is a legally recognized contract. The benefits of this legally recognized contract are privileges. The acknowledgement of these privileges is a right. And way to try to back me into a corner with the choices on due process -_- Congress passed DOMA and California passed Prop 8. This is a civil rights issue. The USA and its people have made these mistakes before (African Americans, Women broadly and Inter-racial marriage more specifically). Troll elsewhere friend ಠ_ಠ
this is probably a little late but I hope you read this: Yeah, we are a representative democracy and the people in the state of NY elected officials who struck down this gay marriage bill. They're ignorant and stupid but I mean, people have rights in this country, stupid people as well, and that's what makes this country what it is. A stupid country? Yeah maybe, but also a country where no matter who you are your voice is heard. It's a two way street and it sucks, but it's a reality.
if u become a congressman then u should pass it....show them it really isnt bad watsoever...its not gonna destroy the sanctity of marriage.....people are so ignorant.....and arent all natural born americans entitled to natural given born rights?.....u pause a lot too hahaha
We the people elect people to represent us, our senators, etc, so while the voting does not lie directly with the people, the people are the ones who choose who goes into certain offices and does the voting, for example, we vote for the president, but it's the Electoral College that really does the voting, based on the people votes, it's a confusing subject, since the government is so complicated, but yea, I learned all about government in JROTC.
You are the most winning "loser" I have ever seen. You are articulate, intelligent, and wise beyond your years. I am very glad you are making these videos for others--gay youth especially--to see!
I don't see what the problem with same sex marriage, anyone who has ever been married knows it's always the same sex! ( as quoted by robin Williams) we; the gay community have just as much right to be together as a hetero couple. Love trancends(sp?) laws.
Even though I agree with you, I have to ask you a question...
were women's voting rights and abolition really voted upon by the people? I just learned that they were the 19th and 13th amendments, respectively. and I thought constitutional amendments came from the legislators, not necessarily by the people.
But you have a point: true democracy is a simple majority vote by the people.
Brandon was being sarcastic to show that major decisions on social issues have been made by the courts and by the elected officials in the US. That's the way is should be, sorry Tea Partiers and Republicans and social conservatives.
Agreed. I don't think democracy's always the best system of government.
If it were up to a simple democracy, I don't think this country would legalize same-sex marriages on the federal level. But then again, I think that the same can be said about civil rights in the 1960s or women's voting rights in the 1920s.
I would like to just say that gay marriage kind of has to be federal issue. why? Full Faith and Credit Clause. Any legal ruling is granted in one state is valid in any other. Marriage Licenses issued in Hawaii are valid in Vermont. therefore a gay marriage license is Technically valid in Texas, whether they like it or not. So Marriage Law is really only sensible on a National level
You're right. It should be a federal issue but DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act) suspended the full faith and credit clause. Bill Clinton signed it in 1996. Our only hope for that to change is for the President to suspend DOMA with an executive order or for the Supreme Court to strike it down...This will probably never happen...I wish we lived in Canada
I wouldn't say it would never be gotten rid of by the Supreme Court. There is a good change it is going to either be repealed by congress or ruled unconstitutional in the Supreme Court within the next 5-10 years.
I hope they strike it down. But the case has been submitted to the court for writ of certiorari 6 times since 1996 and they refuse to hear it. I think the President will act with his power before the other two branches...The video was awesome btw :)
I see it simply as a basic rights and discrimination issue. Discrimination can not be allowed due to sexual orientation. If homosexuals are not allowed the RIGHT of marriage within their sexual orientation, THAT is discrimination based on sexual orientation. There was a time when we given electroshock because we were gay. Pre-Stonewall we were jailed merely for going to gay bars. Now we are allowed equal rights and protection in some places. Progress happens slowly, but at least it's happening.
Hey can anyone tell me what's wrong with gay marriage? It drives me insane when people tell other people how to live! Have you ever heard the saying mind your own business! That's what you assholes need to do. If it's not your life then don't tell others how to live it.
Yeah I know what you mean, but I think it might cause an annoyance to the majority and it may lead for them to resent us even more which is something that I wouldnt want but agian it might help them understand over time.
Gay marriage will never win until THE PEOPLE understand that this is not a marriage issue, its a civil rights issue. This is the complaint I've had against the millions of dollars wasted on the "Prop 8" push.
The concept of our democratic society is equal treatment under the law. If heterosexuals have a right to marry so must homosexuals.
I argued this vehemently with the California No-on-Prop-8 people as I continued to send them money. They never understood it is an equal rights issue not a right-to-marry issue. That's why they lost.
A fundamental concept of our Society is that the will of the majority cannot override rights of the minority. Californians put an illegal law into effect.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
proposition 8 didn't in anyway eliminated civil rights. those judges created a right out of existence . YES on prop 8 repeatedly said that the judges legislated from the bench and everybody has the same right to marry someone of the opposite sex or get civil unions if its the same sex the only thing that prop 8 removed were extra marriage rights to marry someone of the same sex and that wasn't even our campaign's fault in the first place.
What you state is factually wrong. It is propaganda. If you don't understand that, it is because you choose to believe the spin and the propaganda. "Special rights" is a buzz phrase used to deny equal rights. Prop 8 is illegal and will eventually be proven as such. If equal rights existed, then gay people would be allowed to marry. That right to marry was eliminated by the illegal prop 8 that took away an equal right. That is fact.
KENBALLer00 "extra marriage rights" ? What are you talking about ? The right to marry is currently being limited to a specific class of people.Therefore the onus of proof to establish why that is not unjustifiably discriminatory is on the party asserting such discrimination. BTW, rights are not subject to being withdrawn by the vote of a majotity, e.g. Prop 8; if it were otherwise the withdrawal of rights of the Jews in 1930s Germany would be justified,. it's the same type of discrimination.
the state has a vested interest in steering procreation into an environment where there is a mom and a dad biologically connected to that child. so the right to marry is is being limited to specific class of RELATIONSHIPS not people.
also, how do you take away a right that doesn't even exist in the first place.
the California judges legislated from the bench. there is not a single court case or amendment on a federal level that would confer a right to gay marriage and those judges new it.
Marriage is not for childrem to have married parents! Marriage is a holy union showing two peoples love for each other. So if you want to be technical since it is considered a holy union then non-religious straight people should not be allowed to marry either.
Judges are meant to test to the constitutionality of laws.
If you say they "created a right out of existence", they they proved the right to marry was protected by the Constitution. If you don't like the Constitution, then I suggest you leave the country. The Constitution has and will always be there.
Expect it's not there at all! Sometimes judges really just invent rights based on a very loose interpretation of the constitution. For example, your Miranda rights are nowhere in the constitution. They just kind of spread out of a single ruling by a judge and are now a fundamental part of the justice system. Is that bad? In that case, no. However that doesn't mean that they are really legal in the sense of coming from the constitution. So if I wanted to I could dispute them. Same thing w/ prop 8
if Go to Wikipedia and type in Baker v. Nelson, The case will show you that the same court in Loving v Virginia not only distinguished same sex marriage from interracial marriage, but established it as a right that does not exist under the constitution and never did.
so the 14 amendment does not confer a RIGHT to gay marriage anymore than it does for polygamy.
therefore, same sex couples do not have a SPECIAL RIGHT to redefine marriage for everybody else. the "will of the people" have a FUNDAMENTAL right under the tenth amendment to do such a task because we live in a democracy not an aristocracy. in baker v. nelson, the case called citizens for equal protection will show you that citizens do have a right to vote on rights just as long as they are NEW rights, such as same sex marriage.
I agree entirely that, for minority rights, you can't have the majority vote. However, I think your examples of the people's stupidity kind of muddied the issue, because, in general, the "will of the people" is a good idea. The fact that, currently, the people are stupid isn't the point. The point is that minorities need protections from the majority.
Btw, regarding the vote: although the result was depressing, there were some signs of hope. 9 out of the 11 black Senators supported the bill, and many made parallels to interracial marriage. In particular, Senator Eric Adams gave an inspiring speech, starting with a list of states that participated in legalized slavery. My favorite quotes:
"Because the numerical majority is in one place, does not mean they're in the right place."
"Go read what they said about blacks being able to marry [whites]. If you were to close your eyes, you would hear the same comments that are being made."
"All [minorities] went through something to be decided that we too love America and that we too have a right to prosper in America. That is all members of the LGBT community are saying that's how important this issue is. I respect the opinion of my colleagues that have religion beliefs, and I have religious beliefs. But when I walk through these doors, my bible stays out. I must pass laws that not only protect one part of the state, but the entire state."
I sent his office a letter and was also inspired to donate $100 to Americans United for Separation of Church and State. To anyone out there with some disposable income, I encourage you to do the same.
Why not drop the semantic silliness? Society has an interest in supporting stable relationships, all stable relationships, not just religiously sanctioned relationships (stable or otherwise). Whether the protection of stable relationships comes from courts, or legislatures, or from the people directly, it's a good thing. Favoring religiously or historically sanctioned relationships -- just because they are such -- isn't a good thing, whomever is responsible.
Elected politicians fall back on that "will of the people" argument when they're too afraid to do the right thing. They'd rather be re-elected than do what's right, so they pass the blame for their shameful behaviour to their constituents.
Just a question, do you think G. Bush was really elected the first time or just got in on a technicality since he didn't get the popular vote, just the electoral vote and only barely because of Florida?
Has everyone just given up on electoral vote reform or are they okay with those kinds of scenarios?
you are right...the "US Supreme Court stopped the recount in Florida and gave the election to Bush....the RightWingNuts for get this...and now want the People to vote...its whatever suits their purpose ...if a Court overturned gayrights...they would praise it....
You just hit another home run. The American dream was to protect the rights of the minority against the oppression of the majority. Dreams don't always come true. Fear, Ignorance, Prejudice too often determines the "Will of the People" forgetting that minorities are people too. Wish more people would follow the Biblical Teaching which says, "Come now, Let us Reason Together"
I live in Ireland, we have a constitution that says that changes to the law have to be decided by vote. We have civil unions here for gay people but we can't get full marriage rights because it would have to be voted on, It would pass overwhelmingly but it's going to be a long time before it goes up for the vote because it's not a big issue for 90% of the people. My point is that representative democracy is the best way to handle this, the majority should never decide the fate of the minority.
its not the changes to the law that have to be decided by vote of the people, its changes to the constitution that have tto be voted on, the constitution being the basis for all laws.
And we don't have civil unions in Ireland - we don't even have civil partnership - the law has not been passed yet. Some legal experts say that we could actually have full marriage by changing one law and not having to go near the constitution but the minister for justice disagrees so we have to wait a bit longer
Actually the bill was just debated with no opposition in the Dail so, yes, effectively we now will have civil unions.
Btw: I study constitutional law, I know what I'm talking about and YOU know what I'm talking about so drop the know it all YouTube bullshit and mind your own comments.
Look I'm not looking to get into an argument, but what you said gave the wrong impression. We won't have civil unions we will have civil partnerships. A small difference, yes, but a difference none the less. The semantics of this issue are important.
And if you study constitutional law you'll know that saying that we vote on changes in the law is inaccurate. We vote on changes in the constitution. The devil is always in the detail as you should well know.
You may notice that the same righteous folks who insist that "the people" should vote directly on this issue in ME and CA are not demanding a direct vote in NY.
because there is not a single court case or amendment or even a civilization that would even hint or confer a right to gay marriage. what makes you think its a civil rights and human rights issue?
@kenballer00 WRONG. Canada is a civilization. The Canadian Supreme Court struck down laws that would block gay marriage on the grounds that they violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
I live in Iowa (that's in the United States, in case you didn't know) where gay marriage is legal. It is also legal in other states, like Mass and Vermont.
In Iowa, it was the Iowa Supreme Court that decided the issue.
Do you take pride in basing your bigotry on false information? Pull your head out of the dirt.
for one thing, when i said that there is not a single court case that confers a right to gay marriage i was referring to FEDERAL courts , specifically the U.S. supreme court, who have transcendent authority OVER state courts in issues dealing with the U.S. constitution rather than mere state constitutions which the Iowa court mainly derived their ruling from
second, a good majority of Iowans oppose gay marriage and right now are quietly crafting a plan to ban it and eventually they will succeed
if you Go to Wikipedia and type in Baker v. Nelson, The case will show you that the same court in Loving v Virginia not only distinguished same sex marriage from interracial marriage, but established it as a right that does not exist under the constitution and never did.
so the 14 amendment does not confer a RIGHT to gay marriage anymore than it does for polygamy.
Its still going to be a while before we are free to marry who we please. We just have to keep fighting for our rights and fixing any mistakes left by anti-gay rights politicians (Republican or Democrat). And you are not a loser btw. :)
A popular vote wouldn't work because Its difficult enough for citizens to vote once every four years so to vote on every single possible piece of legislation would be futile. Saying America is a Democracy is in truth false, I'd say it's more of an Authoritative or Aristocratic form of government. After 9/11 we were afraid and at least we felt safer with Bush in office due to any further attacks. It was a scary time so don't be so hard on them.
no lets get real here georgie was elected once. He cheated the first time. So that one does not count.(LOL) I agree having the majority of people vote on minority issues does not work. Human rights should be a given. but we still have a lot of growing up to do in this world.
The people do get it right...up to a point. Then, they retreat into cozy land and leave it to the fatcat senators to decide what is right. *sigh* And as it has been said earlier, the people did NOT elect King Bush...that both elections were rigged!While people have a roof, MTV and a full belly you'll not get much done...be politically ACTIVE!
Funny thing was polls showed that NYers favored gay marriage by 54%. So I bet that the anti-equality people are happy it wasn't left to the people this time. I heard they only like popular vote when it goes in their favor.
But we never elected George Bush or re-elected him. It was the electoral college that elected him. He didn't have the popular vote in either elections.
Technically, the people didn't elect Bush the first time... Gore clearly won the popular vote. And even same-sex marriage is getting very close to a 50-50 split in most nationwide public opinion polls. Pretty soon you won't be hearing the right-wing fundamentalists talking about "the will of the people" any longer. It may not come soon enough for us, but progress is being made.
BRANDON. You are so smart for your age (haha my age too) and I thank you for making videos. You show us that not all youtubers and only cute&funny. You are a triple threat mister :]
Boy, you sound just like me and yet you are so young! Good for you! Now you understand the problems with democracy. The so-called "people" shouldn't be making laws or deciding anything except bond issues. There is a lot to say to limiting voting rights to the literate and re-imposing voting tests. Up with the elite, down with the plebians!
gay marriage should be a right...well in fact it is. we are just not being allowed to exercise it. you know...life, liberty and the persuit of happiness. but let me say this. take one look at the straight world and what marriage has done to it. and then be very careful what you wish for...you just might get it.
I don't understand your argument. Is you argument that you claim the legislators want to put the vote to the people, but we elect legislators to write our laws.
This is just a small set back, with the whole New York thing. Gay marriage is coming and it's coming soon. Let's not get too upset over these things.. Look at it on the larger scale, the past 10 years perhapes. :) Nothing but progress has been made.
@layersonlife I know! Isn't Brandon wonderful! He's always on top of the world.
Brandon, I would love to suggest that you run for president of the US. I would vote for you! =D But I don't know if you had that in mind.. You could certaintly do it though! Your pretty much capable of everything!
Amber Snafu. You speak marvelous words. Thumbs up.
Religion is all things an opinion, therefore a single opinion is having control over a government that SHOULD let people have multiple opinions and vote based on that. It should be more neutral. Why should the church have the grande opinion that influences the freedom of all? Of everyone eles's opinions?
I hate religion, and christianity is at the top of my charts. Why? No, its not just because alot of them have hated on gay people with thier "marriage constituted between man and woman" and thier "no adam and steve" bullshit. Also because for the little good it has done, which is very little, it has been responsible for the deaths of many innocent people, take the crusades, maybe the witch burnings? In modern times, kids get thrown out, abused, and have commited suicide because of it.
I totally agree! However, I don't mention that I'm an atheist unless someone asks or says something ridiculous and then supports it with religion. Given the evil religion has caused, maybe I should be more aggressive, but I've also seen some of the good it can do: I taught a life skills class for recovering drug addicts and I was able to see how positive (and big) a role religion played in their lives.
Btw, you mentioned below that the US needs a different government. What country are you from?
I am not really athiest, I really have no stance. My stance is sort of anything is possible. I mean, its a miracle that life itself exsists, nevermind anything at all. Isnt the fact anything exsit's something crazy to believe on its own if you think about it?
I know it does alot of good. I just don't feel it amounts up right.. I think it is great for helping people overcome addictions, I have met people who have used it to stop drinking, but I think religion essentially is a way to tap into a certain part of the spirit, if we could find another means of tapping into this powerful side of ourselves without having to use gods and such guidlines, it would be a revolutionary development in both its power and higher understanding of human nature.
PS. Why not spend more time smiling? Life is short, better to smile for a second then frown for that second. Every second counts they say! Your smile is great. <3
Finally, your right, the people should decide what's best for thier country not a bunch or power mongering traditionalist politicians..............
OTR. My friend said your turning straight in 20 years and your just in a phase (she was alil drunk). I was like WTF Q.Q that is soo not happening! Like cmon, if it was a phase it would be over before 20 years, and besides what does she know! I cant accept thiis! LIES SAY I! Buut she just got acceted into the U of A so im throwin her a fkin PARTY!
Anyways........ .. . You guys need a new government system. First you guys should do a mixed market economy so that buisness's cant work out of country and leave so many people jobless. Second you guys need a government and president that fulfills promises, and obama, your not a bad guy, but you said gay marriage would be made legal (from what I read) and here's new york not passing the bill. -next comment-
we can't even elect a president based solely on popular vote. its based on the electoral college [who wins what state]...so i doubt gay marriage will be decided solely by popular vote, either. by the wat, you are such a sweetie!
How sucessfull could you be at being alone and calling food to come to your table? Food listening to your calling would be such a lovely ideal, but that's not how things work.
Some elected representatives can "cheat" to get more votes, so they call on fear (like homophobia), lies (like prejudices), and build a show around them to keep the public opinion from looking closer.
To see democracy on the side of equal rights you would need the majority of the public opinion on the same side.
How would you get the majority of the public opinion to share your views at defending principles for equality?
¿Cómo harías tú para conseguir que la mayoría de la opinión pública compartiera tus ideales en defender principios de igualdad?
I've over 400 subscriptions to LGBT channels. Guess what THAT majority are saying on THIS topic. Little, if anything at all. (That's how majorities work, even within LGBT people sharing same interests)
The tolerant lawmakers are being wimps, or maybe they'd say "practical," by deferring to the people. I think most of them know gay marriage is no threat, but they also know how dedicated the opposition is. They don't want to lose their jobs.
We are a "representative republic". The majority has never voted in favor of granting rights to a minority. (well, what Wash state did kind of counts). What irks me is that after fully supporing women and other minorities, why are those minorities not acting to support the gay community?? Well, I am, I know how to show my gratitude, but it is time the rest of the minorities started pitching in to help... we need to stay united! Otherwise I second the Canada option.
I know and agree with most of what your saying, but I know ton's of straight people who would vote for gay rights. hahahaha if the senate was on the opposite side they wouldn't say "the will of the people". Sorry to say, but you elected those congressmen and senators your don't like if your against gay marriage.
we represent senators and congressmen and women so they can do what is right for the people--not what the people want or wish they had. As the elected individuals they should make the decision the masses can't make because they are too stupid. Alexander Hamilton famously said "the masses are asses" for a reason.
I don't understand how america is "the land of the free" when u have no health care, people are constantly denied health insurance because they are sick and need it, gay marrige in most states are illegal, etc etc... that doesnt seem like "freedom" to me.. more like free for a selected group. Canada is actually the land of the free in my mind. but what do i know. lol
I am hoping that young people like you and others like you will be in charge of this country in about 20 years and these people that are in there now, people who voted for segregation because thats how old thes people are, die off. This country will be a much better of place.
For a democracy to work equal for everyone, awareness on equality would need to be addressed to the point of moving a majority of votes for it.
Historically, the very roots of democracy came from a demand from warriors to gain rights for their labour at war. Nowadays, that translates into other types of civil labour for civil rights.
Rights materialize when some labour on their principles get them coded into laws. Without that labour democracy can go loose
If the straight majority can vote on the gay minority's right to marry, how about the gay community vote whether to continue to allow straight marriage? Only fair, don't you think?
You know the founding fathers literally created the system we have under the belief that the PEOPLE would not be intelligent enough to make the choices essential to a properly run government, like James Madison said, "if men were angels, there would be no government" but the fact is their not angels, their mostly stupid pigs! Thankfully, there are some diamonds in the rough like you Brandon, keep on shining with your brilliance!
Hey Brandon, well, it's possible you're a loser, I don't know, but, what I do know is that if you ARE a loser, well, you're one mighty righteous loser! (no pedo)
(btw, is there an expiration date on 'no pedo'? or will I just owe a royalty fee for each use? :-) )
why in the hell should love be put to a vote in the first place!? durin civil rights movement most people HATED the desegregation laws that president made....but now in 2009 we can see that these laws were the right thing to do...the HUMANE thing. now in 2009 the president should take a similar road in action and make gay marriage 100% legal, i think it disgusting to have to say it is "illegal" in the first place.
Civil rights should NEVER be decided by the general population. Where would women & blacks be now if that was the case? America is supposed to be about EQUALITY FOR ALL. For every step forward we get, we take two steps back. :-/
your eyebrow dances in this video are cute
:) and what you're saying makes sense despite other people's comments.
karenmcpherson2005 6 months ago
You're one sexy ass loser! aha, :)
alphochino 7 months ago
I agree with you a lot O.o (stay out of my head!!!) Good vid :P
idunno22909 9 months ago
I know you posted this video over a year ago, but I just can't believe how much I agree with you on this topic! :-) Go you!
LilleBitteMille 11 months ago
don't hate on bush. 1st off he's gone 2nd he really had a crap shoot butt that's not my point. my government teacher explained it perfectly when he said that government is in a constant rotation. when reagan was elected it was cool to be a republican and everyone was tired of the democrats and their lies. now the tables have turned and the reverse is true. and eventually that will switch. it's just how it works. neither party stays in power forever which is why the united states kinda rocks.
jryanroberts 11 months ago
you are not a loser xD far from it!
hyperactor94 1 year ago
u seem high in this video
Yort781 1 year ago
Oooook. Fisrt of all, how is same sex marrage bad? And what harm does it cause to the scociety? Also, i agree, why do the majority get to decide the fate of the minority? They need to replace all these clised minded people in the senate and get some people who actually care about others. And the constitution states we have "life, liberty, and the persuit of happiness" by not passing that law, theyr denying our rights.
KrIzZkOrOx 1 year ago
People if you don't believe in same sex marriage...then don't marry someone of the same sex.
wpgrogue 1 year ago
Government approved marriage is ridiculous. Let the goverment give EVERYONE civil partnerships and leave marriage to the Church/religous bodies
livluvlaugh114 1 year ago
Heh, I just don't understand how marriage is considered a right. Where is that in the constitution? Calling gay people a minority is just ridiculous when you compare them to a racial minority. It would be like calling a group of people with a particular fetish a minority. Comparing the fight for gay marriage to the civil rights era is rather degrading to those that actually lived and fought hard for their racial equality.
PersonguydudeWB 1 year ago
@PersonguydudeWB Gay people have one thing in common with racial minorities: we are under discrimination.
tomthecat94 10 months ago
@PersonguydudeWB You sir, need to troll harder. The 14th amendment, ladies and gentlemen, states (ahem) "No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the PRIVILEGES or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." (capped for emphasis) The priviges of marriage cannot be denied. Thats unconstitutional.
idunno22909 9 months ago
@idunno22909
Who says that gay marriage is a privilege? I have not seen that written down anywhere. For instance, your driving license is a privilege, and according to the 14th Amendment cannot be taken away without "due process of law". If as in your mind, gay marriage is a privilege, what constitutes due process? A vote by the people? A judgement from some court?
PersonguydudeWB 9 months ago
@PersonguydudeWB Marriage is a legally recognized contract. The benefits of this legally recognized contract are privileges. The acknowledgement of these privileges is a right. And way to try to back me into a corner with the choices on due process -_- Congress passed DOMA and California passed Prop 8. This is a civil rights issue. The USA and its people have made these mistakes before (African Americans, Women broadly and Inter-racial marriage more specifically). Troll elsewhere friend ಠ_ಠ
idunno22909 9 months ago
this is probably a little late but I hope you read this: Yeah, we are a representative democracy and the people in the state of NY elected officials who struck down this gay marriage bill. They're ignorant and stupid but I mean, people have rights in this country, stupid people as well, and that's what makes this country what it is. A stupid country? Yeah maybe, but also a country where no matter who you are your voice is heard. It's a two way street and it sucks, but it's a reality.
brothamouzoune 1 year ago
as they say, the forefathers did it right. no need for worry? the constitution
makes it clear. a majority cannot take the rights of a minority by referendum.
no state can do so. etc. blah blah blah........stand. and fight.
jumbobobcleo 1 year ago
if u become a congressman then u should pass it....show them it really isnt bad watsoever...its not gonna destroy the sanctity of marriage.....people are so ignorant.....and arent all natural born americans entitled to natural given born rights?.....u pause a lot too hahaha
pigbutt12345 1 year ago
Dude very good point! Be a politician!
wolcottbc 1 year ago
I like your vlogs . . . they're, OMG, interesting and relevant. haha
Anyhoo, good vid. :)
eeli1 1 year ago
We the people elect people to represent us, our senators, etc, so while the voting does not lie directly with the people, the people are the ones who choose who goes into certain offices and does the voting, for example, we vote for the president, but it's the Electoral College that really does the voting, based on the people votes, it's a confusing subject, since the government is so complicated, but yea, I learned all about government in JROTC.
CJCA915 1 year ago
i agree with u Brandon. Most people ARE stupid.
i agree with u about the people's vote thing. u're so cute. and u ARE NOT a loser! u're amazing.
OneWingAngel07 1 year ago
Yeah, I dunno about that whole "loser" thing.
You'll know one day, when you look back and tell someone he's beyond his years.
...Masculine pronouns are the default in English. So when I say "he," of course it can be "she" too.
Angiogenisis 2 years ago
You're not a loser.
A loser doesn't have an open mind like you :D
blueboycrazy 2 years ago
You are the most winning "loser" I have ever seen. You are articulate, intelligent, and wise beyond your years. I am very glad you are making these videos for others--gay youth especially--to see!
BrizyComics 2 years ago 2
wow, this is really well said and put together. Great job, keep up the good work.
-The YouTube News Network
utubenewsnetwork 2 years ago 2
I don't see what the problem with same sex marriage, anyone who has ever been married knows it's always the same sex! ( as quoted by robin Williams) we; the gay community have just as much right to be together as a hetero couple. Love trancends(sp?) laws.
agualotus 2 years ago
thanks for posting this. right on!
TheNewbies 2 years ago
Even though I agree with you, I have to ask you a question...
were women's voting rights and abolition really voted upon by the people? I just learned that they were the 19th and 13th amendments, respectively. and I thought constitutional amendments came from the legislators, not necessarily by the people.
But you have a point: true democracy is a simple majority vote by the people.
Peace :)
thelifeofkai 2 years ago
Brandon was being sarcastic to show that major decisions on social issues have been made by the courts and by the elected officials in the US. That's the way is should be, sorry Tea Partiers and Republicans and social conservatives.
abteen05 2 years ago
Agreed. I don't think democracy's always the best system of government.
If it were up to a simple democracy, I don't think this country would legalize same-sex marriages on the federal level. But then again, I think that the same can be said about civil rights in the 1960s or women's voting rights in the 1920s.
thelifeofkai 2 years ago
Equal rights for everyone, just some have more equal rights than others.
Fishimus 2 years ago
i think ur right !
BTW ur really cute =]
lucasoe92 2 years ago
My understanding was that the majority of New Yorkers supported gay marriage. I wonder how the NY senate says that reflects the will of the people.
expat26 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
God you're fucking delicious.
poolerboy0077 2 years ago
I would like to just say that gay marriage kind of has to be federal issue. why? Full Faith and Credit Clause. Any legal ruling is granted in one state is valid in any other. Marriage Licenses issued in Hawaii are valid in Vermont. therefore a gay marriage license is Technically valid in Texas, whether they like it or not. So Marriage Law is really only sensible on a National level
MrThatGuyYouForgot 2 years ago
You're right. It should be a federal issue but DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act) suspended the full faith and credit clause. Bill Clinton signed it in 1996. Our only hope for that to change is for the President to suspend DOMA with an executive order or for the Supreme Court to strike it down...This will probably never happen...I wish we lived in Canada
relgis15 2 years ago
I wouldn't say it would never be gotten rid of by the Supreme Court. There is a good change it is going to either be repealed by congress or ruled unconstitutional in the Supreme Court within the next 5-10 years.
SomeoneToShoutFor 2 years ago
I hope they strike it down. But the case has been submitted to the court for writ of certiorari 6 times since 1996 and they refuse to hear it. I think the President will act with his power before the other two branches...The video was awesome btw :)
relgis15 2 years ago
I love that the only hope to strike down an unconstitutional law is for the president to use a nonconsitionally granted power. Got to love America
MrThatGuyYouForgot 2 years ago
uhmmm the 14th ammendment is a valuable arguement. it worked for Brown vs. board of education
richArdballsify 2 years ago
I see it simply as a basic rights and discrimination issue. Discrimination can not be allowed due to sexual orientation. If homosexuals are not allowed the RIGHT of marriage within their sexual orientation, THAT is discrimination based on sexual orientation. There was a time when we given electroshock because we were gay. Pre-Stonewall we were jailed merely for going to gay bars. Now we are allowed equal rights and protection in some places. Progress happens slowly, but at least it's happening.
Praxxus55712 2 years ago
I agree. The fact that this issue even comes up for a debate and a vote is progress. We'll get there eventually.
cynterslave 2 years ago
Hey can anyone tell me what's wrong with gay marriage? It drives me insane when people tell other people how to live! Have you ever heard the saying mind your own business! That's what you assholes need to do. If it's not your life then don't tell others how to live it.
Canukeepasecret11 2 years ago
A gay version of Glenn Beck? lol *peace, love, and happiness* love your vids man :P.
theo93play 2 years ago
Yeah I know what you mean, but I think it might cause an annoyance to the majority and it may lead for them to resent us even more which is something that I wouldnt want but agian it might help them understand over time.
dufromage37 2 years ago
Gay marriage will never win until THE PEOPLE understand that this is not a marriage issue, its a civil rights issue. This is the complaint I've had against the millions of dollars wasted on the "Prop 8" push.
You have a good mind!
robertbangkok 2 years ago
why don't you explain to someone who is for prop 8 how its a civil rights issue
kenballer00 2 years ago
The concept of our democratic society is equal treatment under the law. If heterosexuals have a right to marry so must homosexuals.
I argued this vehemently with the California No-on-Prop-8 people as I continued to send them money. They never understood it is an equal rights issue not a right-to-marry issue. That's why they lost.
A fundamental concept of our Society is that the will of the majority cannot override rights of the minority. Californians put an illegal law into effect.
robertbangkok 2 years ago 8
This comment has received too many negative votes show
proposition 8 didn't in anyway eliminated civil rights. those judges created a right out of existence . YES on prop 8 repeatedly said that the judges legislated from the bench and everybody has the same right to marry someone of the opposite sex or get civil unions if its the same sex the only thing that prop 8 removed were extra marriage rights to marry someone of the same sex and that wasn't even our campaign's fault in the first place.
prop 8 was perfectly legal
kenballer00 2 years ago
What you state is factually wrong. It is propaganda. If you don't understand that, it is because you choose to believe the spin and the propaganda. "Special rights" is a buzz phrase used to deny equal rights. Prop 8 is illegal and will eventually be proven as such. If equal rights existed, then gay people would be allowed to marry. That right to marry was eliminated by the illegal prop 8 that took away an equal right. That is fact.
robertbangkok 2 years ago 13
if its a fact that prop 8 was illegal, why don't you prove or state why it is rather than make up a bunch of assertions
explain how i am wrong
kenballer00 2 years ago
KENBALLer00 "extra marriage rights" ? What are you talking about ? The right to marry is currently being limited to a specific class of people.Therefore the onus of proof to establish why that is not unjustifiably discriminatory is on the party asserting such discrimination. BTW, rights are not subject to being withdrawn by the vote of a majotity, e.g. Prop 8; if it were otherwise the withdrawal of rights of the Jews in 1930s Germany would be justified,. it's the same type of discrimination.
rickT5555 2 years ago 2
the state has a vested interest in steering procreation into an environment where there is a mom and a dad biologically connected to that child. so the right to marry is is being limited to specific class of RELATIONSHIPS not people.
also, how do you take away a right that doesn't even exist in the first place.
the California judges legislated from the bench. there is not a single court case or amendment on a federal level that would confer a right to gay marriage and those judges new it.
kenballer00 2 years ago
Marriage is not for childrem to have married parents! Marriage is a holy union showing two peoples love for each other. So if you want to be technical since it is considered a holy union then non-religious straight people should not be allowed to marry either.
fhsgossipking 2 years ago 3
Judges are meant to test to the constitutionality of laws.
If you say they "created a right out of existence", they they proved the right to marry was protected by the Constitution. If you don't like the Constitution, then I suggest you leave the country. The Constitution has and will always be there.
leounleashed8 2 years ago
Expect it's not there at all! Sometimes judges really just invent rights based on a very loose interpretation of the constitution. For example, your Miranda rights are nowhere in the constitution. They just kind of spread out of a single ruling by a judge and are now a fundamental part of the justice system. Is that bad? In that case, no. However that doesn't mean that they are really legal in the sense of coming from the constitution. So if I wanted to I could dispute them. Same thing w/ prop 8
MrThatGuyYouForgot 2 years ago
if Go to Wikipedia and type in Baker v. Nelson, The case will show you that the same court in Loving v Virginia not only distinguished same sex marriage from interracial marriage, but established it as a right that does not exist under the constitution and never did.
so the 14 amendment does not confer a RIGHT to gay marriage anymore than it does for polygamy.
continuing.....
kenballer00 2 years ago
therefore, same sex couples do not have a SPECIAL RIGHT to redefine marriage for everybody else. the "will of the people" have a FUNDAMENTAL right under the tenth amendment to do such a task because we live in a democracy not an aristocracy. in baker v. nelson, the case called citizens for equal protection will show you that citizens do have a right to vote on rights just as long as they are NEW rights, such as same sex marriage.
kenballer00 2 years ago
BOOO NY
lpb2002 2 years ago
I agree entirely that, for minority rights, you can't have the majority vote. However, I think your examples of the people's stupidity kind of muddied the issue, because, in general, the "will of the people" is a good idea. The fact that, currently, the people are stupid isn't the point. The point is that minorities need protections from the majority.
miamlarda 2 years ago
Btw, regarding the vote: although the result was depressing, there were some signs of hope. 9 out of the 11 black Senators supported the bill, and many made parallels to interracial marriage. In particular, Senator Eric Adams gave an inspiring speech, starting with a list of states that participated in legalized slavery. My favorite quotes:
miamlarda 2 years ago
"Because the numerical majority is in one place, does not mean they're in the right place."
"Go read what they said about blacks being able to marry [whites]. If you were to close your eyes, you would hear the same comments that are being made."
miamlarda 2 years ago
"All [minorities] went through something to be decided that we too love America and that we too have a right to prosper in America. That is all members of the LGBT community are saying that's how important this issue is. I respect the opinion of my colleagues that have religion beliefs, and I have religious beliefs. But when I walk through these doors, my bible stays out. I must pass laws that not only protect one part of the state, but the entire state."
miamlarda 2 years ago
I sent his office a letter and was also inspired to donate $100 to Americans United for Separation of Church and State. To anyone out there with some disposable income, I encourage you to do the same.
miamlarda 2 years ago
The US Supreme Court is just afraid of negative reactions if they accepte gay marige.BTW your definitely not a loser!
hitpointer77 2 years ago
You're too smart to call yourself a loser.
Never do that again.
ironcarvel 2 years ago
Why not drop the semantic silliness? Society has an interest in supporting stable relationships, all stable relationships, not just religiously sanctioned relationships (stable or otherwise). Whether the protection of stable relationships comes from courts, or legislatures, or from the people directly, it's a good thing. Favoring religiously or historically sanctioned relationships -- just because they are such -- isn't a good thing, whomever is responsible.
toreadorable 2 years ago
Elected politicians fall back on that "will of the people" argument when they're too afraid to do the right thing. They'd rather be re-elected than do what's right, so they pass the blame for their shameful behaviour to their constituents.
seaottersoup 2 years ago
Just a question, do you think G. Bush was really elected the first time or just got in on a technicality since he didn't get the popular vote, just the electoral vote and only barely because of Florida?
Has everyone just given up on electoral vote reform or are they okay with those kinds of scenarios?
P.S. only my second text comment EVER! :)
Balance2Life 2 years ago 3
you are right...the "US Supreme Court stopped the recount in Florida and gave the election to Bush....the RightWingNuts for get this...and now want the People to vote...its whatever suits their purpose ...if a Court overturned gayrights...they would praise it....
deepwoodguy 2 years ago
Hello From England.
Hitler was voted into power in 1933 in Germany by a vote of the people !
gaykernow 2 years ago 2
Keep on smiling. =D
ericos 2 years ago 3
You just hit another home run. The American dream was to protect the rights of the minority against the oppression of the majority. Dreams don't always come true. Fear, Ignorance, Prejudice too often determines the "Will of the People" forgetting that minorities are people too. Wish more people would follow the Biblical Teaching which says, "Come now, Let us Reason Together"
Jedd20 2 years ago
I live in Ireland, we have a constitution that says that changes to the law have to be decided by vote. We have civil unions here for gay people but we can't get full marriage rights because it would have to be voted on, It would pass overwhelmingly but it's going to be a long time before it goes up for the vote because it's not a big issue for 90% of the people. My point is that representative democracy is the best way to handle this, the majority should never decide the fate of the minority.
bistrosidecar 2 years ago
its not the changes to the law that have to be decided by vote of the people, its changes to the constitution that have tto be voted on, the constitution being the basis for all laws.
And we don't have civil unions in Ireland - we don't even have civil partnership - the law has not been passed yet. Some legal experts say that we could actually have full marriage by changing one law and not having to go near the constitution but the minister for justice disagrees so we have to wait a bit longer
mushacles 2 years ago
Actually the bill was just debated with no opposition in the Dail so, yes, effectively we now will have civil unions.
Btw: I study constitutional law, I know what I'm talking about and YOU know what I'm talking about so drop the know it all YouTube bullshit and mind your own comments.
bistrosidecar 2 years ago
Look I'm not looking to get into an argument, but what you said gave the wrong impression. We won't have civil unions we will have civil partnerships. A small difference, yes, but a difference none the less. The semantics of this issue are important.
And if you study constitutional law you'll know that saying that we vote on changes in the law is inaccurate. We vote on changes in the constitution. The devil is always in the detail as you should well know.
mushacles 2 years ago 2
You may notice that the same righteous folks who insist that "the people" should vote directly on this issue in ME and CA are not demanding a direct vote in NY.
sonoki82 2 years ago
You should be president.
mybigsecret3 2 years ago
i think that you like many others are Begging the Question, what makes you think that its a civil rights or human rights issue in the first place?
kenballer00 2 years ago
The term 'civil' means 'of the citizens,' so a civil right is a right of the citizens.
Citizens have the right to get married, licenses are provided by the state.
Gay people are citizens.
Gay people are humans.
This begs the question, how do you NOT see that this is BOTH a civil rights and a human rights issue in the first place?
QCHitch 2 years ago 3
because there is not a single court case or amendment or even a civilization that would even hint or confer a right to gay marriage. what makes you think its a civil rights and human rights issue?
kenballer00 2 years ago
@kenballer00 WRONG. Canada is a civilization. The Canadian Supreme Court struck down laws that would block gay marriage on the grounds that they violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
seaottersoup 2 years ago 4
I live in Iowa (that's in the United States, in case you didn't know) where gay marriage is legal. It is also legal in other states, like Mass and Vermont.
In Iowa, it was the Iowa Supreme Court that decided the issue.
Do you take pride in basing your bigotry on false information? Pull your head out of the dirt.
QCHitch 2 years ago
for one thing, when i said that there is not a single court case that confers a right to gay marriage i was referring to FEDERAL courts , specifically the U.S. supreme court, who have transcendent authority OVER state courts in issues dealing with the U.S. constitution rather than mere state constitutions which the Iowa court mainly derived their ruling from
second, a good majority of Iowans oppose gay marriage and right now are quietly crafting a plan to ban it and eventually they will succeed
kenballer00 2 years ago
kenballer:
you said, "there is not a single court case or amendment or even a civilzation that would even hint or confer a right to gay marriage."
Since that statement was proven wrong, you want to go back and modify your statement by eliminating all examples of the contrary.
The U.S. Supreme Court has never heard a case on gay marriage.
Contrary to some beliefs, we have civilization here in Iowa, and they have it in Mass too, where gay marriage has been legal for over five years now.
QCHitch 2 years ago
if you Go to Wikipedia and type in Baker v. Nelson, The case will show you that the same court in Loving v Virginia not only distinguished same sex marriage from interracial marriage, but established it as a right that does not exist under the constitution and never did.
so the 14 amendment does not confer a RIGHT to gay marriage anymore than it does for polygamy.
so i guess your the one thats proven wrong
kenballer00 2 years ago
Its still going to be a while before we are free to marry who we please. We just have to keep fighting for our rights and fixing any mistakes left by anti-gay rights politicians (Republican or Democrat). And you are not a loser btw. :)
ParmaGayGuy 2 years ago
A popular vote wouldn't work because Its difficult enough for citizens to vote once every four years so to vote on every single possible piece of legislation would be futile. Saying America is a Democracy is in truth false, I'd say it's more of an Authoritative or Aristocratic form of government. After 9/11 we were afraid and at least we felt safer with Bush in office due to any further attacks. It was a scary time so don't be so hard on them.
eekthecat 2 years ago
yup, direct democracy sucks....some states use it too much, e.g. california
blahster657 2 years ago
no no no your not a loser
KoolCordell 2 years ago 2
love love love love love love your brilliant!
iheartgandhi1 2 years ago
no lets get real here georgie was elected once. He cheated the first time. So that one does not count.(LOL) I agree having the majority of people vote on minority issues does not work. Human rights should be a given. but we still have a lot of growing up to do in this world.
ironspoon 2 years ago
The people do get it right...up to a point. Then, they retreat into cozy land and leave it to the fatcat senators to decide what is right. *sigh* And as it has been said earlier, the people did NOT elect King Bush...that both elections were rigged!While people have a roof, MTV and a full belly you'll not get much done...be politically ACTIVE!
UncleBym 2 years ago
You're pretty brilliant.
usernametothemax 2 years ago 3
Funny thing was polls showed that NYers favored gay marriage by 54%. So I bet that the anti-equality people are happy it wasn't left to the people this time. I heard they only like popular vote when it goes in their favor.
baker524 2 years ago
But we never elected George Bush or re-elected him. It was the electoral college that elected him. He didn't have the popular vote in either elections.
Snickles2709 2 years ago 2
Technically, the people didn't elect Bush the first time... Gore clearly won the popular vote. And even same-sex marriage is getting very close to a 50-50 split in most nationwide public opinion polls. Pretty soon you won't be hearing the right-wing fundamentalists talking about "the will of the people" any longer. It may not come soon enough for us, but progress is being made.
vwestlife 2 years ago
BRANDON. You are so smart for your age (haha my age too) and I thank you for making videos. You show us that not all youtubers and only cute&funny. You are a triple threat mister :]
<333 Sienna
TEXTUALactivity 2 years ago
Canada figured this shit out a long time ago. Get with it America.
sighmoansays 2 years ago 11
@sighmoansays youre so friggin' hilarious simon!
VincentJTran 1 year ago
Boy, you sound just like me and yet you are so young! Good for you! Now you understand the problems with democracy. The so-called "people" shouldn't be making laws or deciding anything except bond issues. There is a lot to say to limiting voting rights to the literate and re-imposing voting tests. Up with the elite, down with the plebians!
nexttsar 2 years ago
Well said, Brandon. Well said.
Bard23 2 years ago
we need to get the morons out of office. (I don't care about PC terms)
chrisishawtt 2 years ago
lol, wen i first read it, i thought you said mormons.
oneandonlytravis 2 years ago
that works too!
chrisishawtt 2 years ago 2
What a crazy world we live in!
Stay positive anyway, everything will work itself out one day... maybe...
You aren't a loser btw :)
Je1505 2 years ago
Yes! Yes! Yes! A great video that hits the nail on the head.
WhirledSol 2 years ago
gay marriage should be a right...well in fact it is. we are just not being allowed to exercise it. you know...life, liberty and the persuit of happiness. but let me say this. take one look at the straight world and what marriage has done to it. and then be very careful what you wish for...you just might get it.
ftldrdl 2 years ago
7 words: "The person is smart, people are stuipid" - Tommy Lee Jones from Men in Black
OuroborosSoul 2 years ago
I don't understand your argument. Is you argument that you claim the legislators want to put the vote to the people, but we elect legislators to write our laws.
petitamipremier 2 years ago
It is that a popular vote shouldn't be used to determine civil rights.
SomeoneToShoutFor 2 years ago
I agree.
cjosephwu 2 years ago
Your video was really good, your videos are always insightful.
HLDBBZ 2 years ago 2
This is just a small set back, with the whole New York thing. Gay marriage is coming and it's coming soon. Let's not get too upset over these things.. Look at it on the larger scale, the past 10 years perhapes. :) Nothing but progress has been made.
ianIPMian 2 years ago
@layersonlife I know! Isn't Brandon wonderful! He's always on top of the world.
Brandon, I would love to suggest that you run for president of the US. I would vote for you! =D But I don't know if you had that in mind.. You could certaintly do it though! Your pretty much capable of everything!
KorenaCace 2 years ago 2
well I would vote if I lived there at least.
KorenaCace 2 years ago
you're a cute loser ;)
fhorntrumpetdud 2 years ago 4
My belief is there is a separation of church and state therefore there should be no reason why a person could argue against gay marriage
AmberistheSnafu 2 years ago 5
Amber Snafu. You speak marvelous words. Thumbs up.
Religion is all things an opinion, therefore a single opinion is having control over a government that SHOULD let people have multiple opinions and vote based on that. It should be more neutral. Why should the church have the grande opinion that influences the freedom of all? Of everyone eles's opinions?
KorenaCace 2 years ago
I hate religion, and christianity is at the top of my charts. Why? No, its not just because alot of them have hated on gay people with thier "marriage constituted between man and woman" and thier "no adam and steve" bullshit. Also because for the little good it has done, which is very little, it has been responsible for the deaths of many innocent people, take the crusades, maybe the witch burnings? In modern times, kids get thrown out, abused, and have commited suicide because of it.
KorenaCace 2 years ago 8
I totally agree! However, I don't mention that I'm an atheist unless someone asks or says something ridiculous and then supports it with religion. Given the evil religion has caused, maybe I should be more aggressive, but I've also seen some of the good it can do: I taught a life skills class for recovering drug addicts and I was able to see how positive (and big) a role religion played in their lives.
Btw, you mentioned below that the US needs a different government. What country are you from?
miamlarda 2 years ago
I am not really athiest, I really have no stance. My stance is sort of anything is possible. I mean, its a miracle that life itself exsists, nevermind anything at all. Isnt the fact anything exsit's something crazy to believe on its own if you think about it?
KorenaCace 2 years ago
I know it does alot of good. I just don't feel it amounts up right.. I think it is great for helping people overcome addictions, I have met people who have used it to stop drinking, but I think religion essentially is a way to tap into a certain part of the spirit, if we could find another means of tapping into this powerful side of ourselves without having to use gods and such guidlines, it would be a revolutionary development in both its power and higher understanding of human nature.
KorenaCace 2 years ago
PS. Why not spend more time smiling? Life is short, better to smile for a second then frown for that second. Every second counts they say! Your smile is great. <3
KorenaCace 2 years ago
Finally, your right, the people should decide what's best for thier country not a bunch or power mongering traditionalist politicians..............
OTR. My friend said your turning straight in 20 years and your just in a phase (she was alil drunk). I was like WTF Q.Q that is soo not happening! Like cmon, if it was a phase it would be over before 20 years, and besides what does she know! I cant accept thiis! LIES SAY I! Buut she just got acceted into the U of A so im throwin her a fkin PARTY!
KorenaCace 2 years ago
No whay your smile rocks! XD
Anyways........ .. . You guys need a new government system. First you guys should do a mixed market economy so that buisness's cant work out of country and leave so many people jobless. Second you guys need a government and president that fulfills promises, and obama, your not a bad guy, but you said gay marriage would be made legal (from what I read) and here's new york not passing the bill. -next comment-
KorenaCace 2 years ago
we can't even elect a president based solely on popular vote. its based on the electoral college [who wins what state]...so i doubt gay marriage will be decided solely by popular vote, either. by the wat, you are such a sweetie!
600keith 2 years ago
As always a good subject for a rant.
spencear 2 years ago
How sucessfull could you be at being alone and calling food to come to your table? Food listening to your calling would be such a lovely ideal, but that's not how things work.
Some elected representatives can "cheat" to get more votes, so they call on fear (like homophobia), lies (like prejudices), and build a show around them to keep the public opinion from looking closer.
To see democracy on the side of equal rights you would need the majority of the public opinion on the same side.
layersonlife 2 years ago
How would you get the majority of the public opinion to share your views at defending principles for equality?
¿Cómo harías tú para conseguir que la mayoría de la opinión pública compartiera tus ideales en defender principios de igualdad?
I've over 400 subscriptions to LGBT channels. Guess what THAT majority are saying on THIS topic. Little, if anything at all. (That's how majorities work, even within LGBT people sharing same interests)
layersonlife 2 years ago
I know! Isn't Brandon wonderful! He's always on top of the world.
KorenaCace 2 years ago
ppl dont learn from history, how sad
sleekcartim 2 years ago
Well, you can thank progressives in the early 1900's for state referendums and initiatives....wooooo go progressives(sarcasm)...
cowpoker321 2 years ago
Senator Diane Savino is my hero. Have you watched her speech during the Senate vote?
Do it.
WillzWatching 2 years ago 3
omg.. that was so inspiring!
mannydmammoth 2 years ago
Thanks for alerting me to that speech. I loved what Senator Savino had to say!
trekkerbud 2 years ago
The tolerant lawmakers are being wimps, or maybe they'd say "practical," by deferring to the people. I think most of them know gay marriage is no threat, but they also know how dedicated the opposition is. They don't want to lose their jobs.
the2012report 2 years ago
agreed.
"no threat" - hell, it would actually help the NY economy.
miamlarda 2 years ago
We are a "representative republic". The majority has never voted in favor of granting rights to a minority. (well, what Wash state did kind of counts). What irks me is that after fully supporing women and other minorities, why are those minorities not acting to support the gay community?? Well, I am, I know how to show my gratitude, but it is time the rest of the minorities started pitching in to help... we need to stay united! Otherwise I second the Canada option.
watertower12 2 years ago
I know and agree with most of what your saying, but I know ton's of straight people who would vote for gay rights. hahahaha if the senate was on the opposite side they wouldn't say "the will of the people". Sorry to say, but you elected those congressmen and senators your don't like if your against gay marriage.
Iwantmy200 2 years ago
we represent senators and congressmen and women so they can do what is right for the people--not what the people want or wish they had. As the elected individuals they should make the decision the masses can't make because they are too stupid. Alexander Hamilton famously said "the masses are asses" for a reason.
runningupsidedown9 2 years ago
I don't think we should be voting on same-sex marriage at all. The equal treatment of any group should not be subject to a vote.
skibiskit 2 years ago 3
I don't understand how america is "the land of the free" when u have no health care, people are constantly denied health insurance because they are sick and need it, gay marrige in most states are illegal, etc etc... that doesnt seem like "freedom" to me.. more like free for a selected group. Canada is actually the land of the free in my mind. but what do i know. lol
BrianMaber 2 years ago 3
I am hoping that young people like you and others like you will be in charge of this country in about 20 years and these people that are in there now, people who voted for segregation because thats how old thes people are, die off. This country will be a much better of place.
Triforce007 2 years ago 2
For a democracy to work equal for everyone, awareness on equality would need to be addressed to the point of moving a majority of votes for it.
Historically, the very roots of democracy came from a demand from warriors to gain rights for their labour at war. Nowadays, that translates into other types of civil labour for civil rights.
Rights materialize when some labour on their principles get them coded into laws. Without that labour democracy can go loose
EqualBeingsORG 2 years ago
The imposing gay marriage on people line makes me laugh.
If you don't believe in gay marriages then don't fucking get one.
orangegoblin82 2 years ago 2
If the straight majority can vote on the gay minority's right to marry, how about the gay community vote whether to continue to allow straight marriage? Only fair, don't you think?
iansilv 2 years ago 3
I wonder how US law would treat you if you got married (civil partnership) in the UK and then returned to the US....
iansilv 2 years ago 2
WELL PUT.
tyleroakley 2 years ago 5
@tyleroakley I agree, its highly stupid. Thanks Brandon this is very well explained :)
jarrettholt2 2 years ago 2
I agree wholeheartedly with what you are saying
Grimace 2 years ago
i dont understand the way you americans do thing our aussie system is better
paulytheaussie 2 years ago
One old farts opinion--Your parents should be very proud of you. Keep it up. gary
az1412 2 years ago
lol loser. jk :)
glamberson 2 years ago
what happened to protection of minority right? this is one of the pillars of a democracy...
dlyc4714 2 years ago
I made a similar video after Maine had the popular vote. it's bullshit. people's rights shouldn't be up for vote by everyone
kwertie 2 years ago 2
You know the founding fathers literally created the system we have under the belief that the PEOPLE would not be intelligent enough to make the choices essential to a properly run government, like James Madison said, "if men were angels, there would be no government" but the fact is their not angels, their mostly stupid pigs! Thankfully, there are some diamonds in the rough like you Brandon, keep on shining with your brilliance!
TheMitchPhilosophy 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
id love to see u in your undies
daysteveday 2 years ago
Hey Brandon, well, it's possible you're a loser, I don't know, but, what I do know is that if you ARE a loser, well, you're one mighty righteous loser! (no pedo)
(btw, is there an expiration date on 'no pedo'? or will I just owe a royalty fee for each use? :-) )
rippinsteo 2 years ago
why in the hell should love be put to a vote in the first place!? durin civil rights movement most people HATED the desegregation laws that president made....but now in 2009 we can see that these laws were the right thing to do...the HUMANE thing. now in 2009 the president should take a similar road in action and make gay marriage 100% legal, i think it disgusting to have to say it is "illegal" in the first place.
triked14 2 years ago 4
I'm not even gonna pretend like i know anything about the government =]
itsderek09 2 years ago
Civil rights should NEVER be decided by the general population. Where would women & blacks be now if that was the case? America is supposed to be about EQUALITY FOR ALL. For every step forward we get, we take two steps back. :-/
dafttool 2 years ago 2
Love your videos! Keep em coming. I love the comment about Bush too.
jaybam90 2 years ago 2
I'm gonna get married someday. fosho
karlthewisconsinite 2 years ago