Regarding your Jan. 24 article "Vote for Marriage NC to push for amendment":
After reading the Rev. Mark Harris' statement, "The marriage amendment is simple and straightforward," I thought, Yes, simple and straightforward discrimination.
I was feeling negative about the Baptist Church but I realized I owe a great deal to that church. For my grandparents, the Baptist church in Burlington was their foundation in how they treated each other, made decisions and raised their children. They planned together, worked hard, lived frugally. They taught by example and with humor, living by the Golden Rule.
I also owe gratitude to a small Baptist church in Caswell County, where our maid sang in the choir. Her church gave her a respite from the injustices of a white world. She raised me, and through her love and guidance, I absorbed what injustice was and how she faced it with dignity and strength of moral character. By example, in matters of right and wrong, she taught me to trust my heart.
Although I find their position morally wrong, Rev. Harris and the Baptist State Convention have the right to deny me their version of equal justice under the Lord. They do not have the right to deny me equal protection under the law.
Cathy Chandler
Durham
