The 14th Amendment does not specify that it applies exclusively to former slaves. In fact, the language seems to imply that the precise opposite is true.
Also, human rights should never be an issue left up to popular vote. The very idea is repulsive and completely against the spirit of the Constitution. That's why the Bill of Rights exists; to set these basic rights outside of the potential abuse that may result from the democratic process. Gay marriage is, unfortunately, not an issue the drafters of the Constitution even considered, but I always interpreted the Declaration of Indepedence's opening grants that human rights are inalienable. No governmental entity should restrict anyone's rights unless there is a clear and objectively demonstrable negative effect on other individuals.
Thus, California violated this spirit by allowing its citizens to decide that gay people were second-class citizens not deserving the same rights as straight people.
Also, human rights should never be an issue left up to popular vote. The very idea is repulsive and completely against the spirit of the Constitution. That's why the Bill of Rights exists; to set these basic rights outside of the potential abuse that may result from the democratic process. Gay marriage is, unfortunately, not an issue the drafters of the Constitution even considered, but I always interpreted the Declaration of Indepedence's opening grants that human rights are inalienable. No governmental entity should restrict anyone's rights unless there is a clear and objectively demonstrable negative effect on other individuals.
Thus, California violated this spirit by allowing its citizens to decide that gay people were second-class citizens not deserving the same rights as straight people.
YOU CANNOT HIDE FOREVER
WE STAND AT THE DOOR
WE STAND AT THE DOOR