A stark opposer to marriage equality, Pope Benedict XVI claimed that allowing marriage rights to the LGBT community poses a threat to the future of humanity.
Benedict spoke to diplomats from approximately 180 countries when he said a family unit that is not comprised of a mother and father is harmful to the development of children and of states.
"This is not a simple social convention, but rather the fundamental cell of every society," Benedict said. "Consequently, policies which undermine the family threaten human dignity and the future of humanity itself."
Equality does not pose a threat and such language separates humanity, creating a "them" versus "us" dialogue.
The pope, a leader of one of the most powerful churches in the world, should consider the unity and equality of all people of utmost importance.
Benedict should not instill fear into Catholics in order to promote a political agenda.
Tell Pope Benedict: Marriage equality is not a threat to humanity!
We the undersigned would like to express our opposition concerning your January 9 comments about marriage equality.
We understand that your church is heavily opposed to homosexuality, considering homosexual acts as a sin, and the church has stated time and again that this would not change.
Though we disagree, it would be unwise to argue against religious beliefs.
However, speaking to the legalization of marriage equality as a possible downfall to humanity is going too far. Pushing a political agenda using fear only creates a division of the people.
While wars across nations, domestic violence in the home and lack of resources and food tears families apart, providing equal rights to people should not be thought of as a danger.
We ask you to reconsider your statement and focus, instead, on creating unity among people.
Thank you for taking our concerns into serious consideration.
