"New York Consequences" Background Facts

The following offers additional background information for those interested in more detail on the specific threats described in the "New York Consequences" radio and TV ads:

“Massachusetts schools teach 2nd graders that boys can marry other boys.”
This statement is based on the case of Parker v. Hurley, 514 F.3d 87 (1st Cir. 2008). In this case, parents of young elementary school students objected to curriculum and class room discussion meant to inculcate in the children the idea that there are no differences between the marriages of men and women and those involving same-sex couples. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit held that public schools “have an interest in promoting tolerance, including for the children (and parents) of gay marriages.” Id. at 95. “Given that Massachusetts has recognized gay marriage under its state constitution, it is entirely rational for its schools to educate their students regarding that recognition.” Id. See also, Jonathan Satlzman, Same-Sex Teaching Upheld, Boston Globe, Feb. 24, 2007; Ian B. Murphy, Public School Lawsuit Runs Out of Federal Appeals, Tauton Daily Gazette, Oct. 7, 2008.

“A California public school took first graders to a same-sex wedding, calling it "a teachable moment.”
This event was reported in the San Francisco Chronicle on October 11, 2008. Jill Tucker, "Class Surprises Lesbian Teacher on Wedding Day," San Francisco Chronicle, October 11, 2008, available at http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/10/11/MNFG13F1VG.DTL. 

Station Manager's Letter (PDF)