Prop 8 and The Mormon Church

California is one of many states that allows voters to write legislation and change the state constitution through the initiative or proposition process. Sounds like democracy in action, right? Wrong. Wealthy interest groups or individuals, often out of state (e.g. Ward Connerly's meddling in Michigan and Washington State), bankroll these initiatives and propositions: it's not like Joe Blow down the street usually has the time, inclination, money or know-how when it comes to putting propositions on the ballot. Big money and special interests are almost always at work.

The precursor to Proposition 8 was Proposition 22 enacted in 2000, and invalidated by the California Supreme Court as unconstitutional in May 2008. Prop 8 was introduced to change the state constitution so that GLBTQ Californians could no longer have marriage equality. Prop 8 passed in November 2008 and was upheld by the California Supreme Court on May 25, 2009, but all of California's same-sex couples who were wed before Prop 8 went into effect are still legally married.

There is currently a federal case, Perry v. Schwarzenegger, before the US District Court. Pam's House Blend is providing spectacular coverage and analysis of the case as it unfolds.

The following letter was sent from the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (that's them up there) to Church leaders in California to be read to all congregations on 29 June 2008 in preparation for the vote on Prop 8:

Preserving Traditional Marriage and Strengthening Families

In March 2000 California voters overwhelmingly approved a state law providing that ‘Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.’ The California Supreme Court recently reversed this vote of the people. On November 4, 2008, Californians will vote on a proposed amendment to the California state constitution that will now restore the March 2000 definition of marriage approved by the voters. The Church’s teachings and position on this moral issue are unequivocal. Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God, and the formation of families is central to the Creator’s plan for His children. Children are entitled to be born within this bond of marriage. A broad-based coalition of churches and other organizations placed the proposed amendment on the ballot. The Church will participate with this coalition in seeking its passage. Local Church leaders will provide information about how you may become involved in this important cause. We ask that you do all you can to support the proposed constitutional amendment by donating of your means and time to assure that marriage in California is legally defined as being between a man and a woman. Our best efforts are required to preserve the sacred institution of marriage.

Mormons were more than happy to answer the call to arms. Although Mormons constitute roughly 2% of the Californian population, it's "estimated that Mormons made up 80 percent to 90 percent of the early volunteers who walked door-to-door in election precincts." Mormons didn't just give of their time, they gave money, too: "In the end, Protect Marriage estimates, as much as half of the nearly $40 million raised on behalf of the measure was contributed by Mormons." Utah led out-of-state contributions to ProtectMarriage.com.

Want to learn about some more Mormon meddling political asshattery? Then click here.