Change of Heart for San Diego Mayor

Thanks, Lori Hahn, for posting this video of Mayor Jerry Sanders explaining his decision to support gay marriage. Below is a letter Marcia wrote to the San Diego mayor applauding his decision.

Dear Mayor Sanders,

I just saw a video of you and your wife on YouTube in which you
announced that you will sign the resolution passed by your city
council to file a brief in support of gay marriage. Thank you.

Last December my extended family came from many parts of the United
States to spend Christmas in your beautiful city San Diego. We were
not disappointed–the beaches were pristine, the skies blue, the city
stunning. There is only one problem with San Diego, we all agreed:
it’s too conservative.

You see, my sister and I are both lesbians with life-long partners and
2 kids each; our dad is a retired bishop in the United Methodist
Church who works unfailingly for justice for all; our mom is an
idealist who believes in unconditional love for everyone; and our
brother, his wife, and their 2 kids are activists committed to making
the world a better place. We are an amazing family, if I do say so
myself.

And your family, too, is amazing, if I do say so myself! Your change
of heart over gay marriage left me in tears. Truly. Transformation is
always courageous, but you get lots of bonus points because you chose
(okay, no doubt you felt forced) to explain your change in public to
your constituents and the world.

I just want you to know that I applaud your dedication to
enlightenment and equality. I hope that I will be as brave as you
have been if (no, WHEN!) the turn arises for me to grow or change my
views about an issue. You are an inspiration. Keep up your good
work.

And maybe our family will see you next Christmas in San Diego after
all. It would be an honor.

Best wishes,
Marcia in Texas

Comments

[valerie]

Thank you for posting this video.

The mayor's courage, sincerity and willingness to change his mind and explain why are commendable, and his statement has moved me to tears.

[Lori]

When this happened last year, I was stunned. And, it received so little attention. I am so glad he stood with his daughter at the recent No on Prop 8 rally in SD. A moment of truth where family, the true meaning of family, triumphs over politics.

[Carmel]

What a wonderful speech. I was in tears and went directly to his website and emailed him a thank you letter.

[Cheryl]

What an amazing and heartfelt moment. Lisa has a good dad!