As we discussed in class today, there is a category of privacy cases that involve government intrusion. Historically, these cases began with Griswold v. Connecticut, a case involving a married couple's right to have access to contraceptives. This right of privacy, implied by the Bill of Rights, was extended to include the right to have an abortion in the early stages of pregnancy, and eventually, it protected gay and lesbian rights.
In recent years, state legislatures across the country have passed laws that appear to restrict access to abortion. Conservative politicians who have initiated these measures say that these new measures are designed to increase safety for women by increasing the standards in clinics that provide abortion. Reproductive justice advocates, however, argue that these laws -- like the one in Texas passed in 2013 -- make it harder, if not impossible, for women in Texas to get abortions.
Most recently, the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld most of that 2013 Texas law, setting up a possible review by the U.S. Supreme Court. One question the court may address is whether the Texas law creates an "undue burden" on a woman's right to have an abortion.
Read this Associated Press article that summarizes the legal arguments and describes what's at stake: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/16/supreme-court-gay-marriage_n_6439926.html
Also, read this analysis by Lyle Denniston, a legal writer who covers the U.S. Supreme Court: http://lyldenlawnews.com/2015/06/19/texas-abortion-case-reaches-the-court/
After you read these articles, return here and share your comments about how you think the U.S. Supreme Court may rule on this, should they decide to grant certiorari. Also, be sure to include why you think the court will rule the way you think. As an alternative, you can also address how you think the court should rule on this, and why.
As you know, abortion is a divisive political topic, so please be sensitive with your remarks. Also, please remember to include your first name, last name initial and Summer I.
49 comments:
I feel that if certiori is granted, the Supreme Court will rule in favor of gay marriage in all 50 states. It was already mentioned in the Huffington Post article that the states that allow gay marriage encompasses 70 percent of the United States. Also, some of the states that make up the 70 percent that already allow gay marriage includes such a wide variety like Oklahoma, Kansas, California, and even Alabama. Even some states that are conservative that you think would not allow it do. Therefore, I feel that the Supreme Court will have a strong chance in leaning in the favor of the percentage of the states that allow gay marriage.
Alyssa B.
Summer 1
Assuming certiorari is granted, I think that the Supreme Court will rule in favor of gay marriage because just two years ago in 2013, "the court banned provisions in the 1996 federal law recognizing same-sex marriages were unconstitutional," so the Huffington Post article said. We live in a different society than in the 80s and 90s when all these anti-gay laws were being passed. Also, the article mentions how 36 of the 50 states (72%) that encompasses 70% of the U.S. population do not have anti-gay marriage laws. The numbers seem pretty evident to me that today's society is not opposed to gay marriage. I personally hope the court does rule in favor because I believe anyone and everyone should be allowed to marry whoever they want. So enough with that and let's move onto the abortion clinic part.
I feel like the U.S. Supreme Court will vote in favor of delaying the Texas state abortion law thus allowing abortion clinics to either stay open or reopen, whichever the case may be for each respective clinic in Texas. The precedence right now with abortion because of Roe v. Wade is that a woman has the right of privacy to legally get an abortion, as we discussed in class today. In terms of the clinics, if we as a nation/government/etc. are going to allow the closings of these abortion clinics, isn't that infringing on the woman's right to privacy? How are these women supposed to express their right to privacy of getting an abortion if they don't have anywhere to go and carry out that right? Legally speaking it just wouldn't make sense to me to allow women to have abortions but make it hard for them to carry out one. If we place all these provisions making it more and more difficult for a woman to get an abortion, are we REALLY giving these women the right to have an abortion?
Paul Livengood
Summer 1
The questions I'm finding in these cases are pretty simple. Should people be able to marry the ones they love or not? As well as, should women be able to decide to have a baby or not? The answer is yes. A lot of people should be able to do what they want to do and I find that people with strong radical religious beliefs are making mess of the questions asked. Like gay marriage a lot of people say they can't be married because the Bible says marriage can only be between a man and a woman. But that's a single groups religious belief. If I'm Hindu or Buddhist or atheist I can still get married because I'm straight. To me that's not fair. Especially when the United States is supposed to be a single unit. When I go to Louisiana for a vacation my marriage license isn't going to be revoked nor would my driver's license for that matter. Which is why I'm hoping the Justices will understand this and grant gay marriage to the entire USA.
With abortions it's even more complicated because you have to add the morality of life. A famous quote a lot of parent use is "I brought you into this world I can take you out." My body is my body. If I want a tattoo or a piercing I can get one. If I want a mole removed I can get one (not that I'm saying kids are moles.) If I don't want to have a kid I should be able too. Plus there are other circumstance to having an abortion than just health. Maybe it's a rape baby or maybe I wasn't ready to be a mom. Either way I hope they grant certiori because I've seen documentaries about this stuff and what happens is the mother that can't have the abortion finds a way to do an unsafe abortion. So getting rid of the clinics that keep these 5 million women safer sounds like the wrong solution to me. Instead people need to think of a better solution and hopefully with the supreme courts help we can start doing just that.
Kaitlyn Parker
Summer 1
On the topic of same-sex marriage, I think the overall vote will turn out 5:4. I've been reading the Obergefell v. Hodges transcripts and to be be honest it could go either. Many important facts have been called into question during this case. Particularly Justice Scalia and Kennedy seem to be the most vocal throughout the case. the article mentions the 14th Amendment and it was also brought up quite a bit in the Obergefell v. Hodges transcript. Rather than the outcome being the legalization of gay marriage, it sounds more like whether marriage will be "recognized". To me "recognition" and "legalization" seem to be very different. Legalization is allowing same-sex marriage in all states whereas recognition means a same-sex couple married in a legal state will be "recognized" in an illegal state and their marriage license isn't void; they just can't get married in that state. The main argument seems to be whether it's state's rights to make this decision or not. I, personally, hope they rule in favor of legalization, at the same time it feels like a close call.
As far as the abortion issue goes, I believe that the USSC might grant cert but that the case would go very fast if precedent for Planned Parenthood v. Casey and Roe v. Wade is still taken into account. Though I don't necessarily agree with abortion, I do understand that there are certain circumstances where a woman might seek one. These circumstances are usually linked to "undue burden" in these instances. Not to mention closing ten clinics is not an easy task especially when these clinics we the safe abortion clinics. If they worry about the safety of women and abortion, you would think they would keep the good ones in business, therefore reducing the number of unsafe procedures. Should the USSC not grant cert then well we all know what that means.
Nikole Smith
Summer I
Like the other commenters on this blog, I feel that certiorari will be granted by the Supreme Court to rule in favor of gay marriage. As Alyssa and the huffiest article said, 70% of the United States has already ruled in favor of gay marriage, including some conservative states. I also agree with Kaitlyn in that religion should not be brought into the decision that has to be made. They are debating on whether the 14th Amendment should question these rights and it states clearly that it forbids states from denying any person "life, liberty or property, without due process of law" and "deny to any person within jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." Once again religion gets in the way. We have freedom of religion so if it is against your religion to have gays be married, that is your right to believe it is wrong, but if it is ok with your religion to have gay marriage, it is your right to believe it is ok. To outlaw it is going against what the Amendment states.
As for the topic of abortion and Supreme Court rulings, it is very complicated as many factors are involved. However, to try and control someone's decision with what they do with their body is a little ridiculous. To make abortion unavailable in clinics may resort to women going through with abortion practices that are unsafe and dangerous. Again, I understand that life is involved but a woman should not be forced to have children if she does not want to. Also, like Kaitlyn said, there should be some consideration of the situation of the pregnancy. Maybe it is a rape baby or the pregnancy could be a dangerous one. Closing clinics is not going to stop women from going through with an abortion if they really want/need one. It is better to keep the clinics open so they may be carried out safely. Hopefully that wasn't too strong of an opinion.
Amy Anderson
Summer I
Sandy N.
Summer 1
It is crazy how times have changed a lot over the years, but these kinds of cases are still occurring. Sometimes I feel like lesbian and gay marriages are happening more often and they seem happier than straight men and women getting married. If the majority of the states already allow gay and lesbian marriage, then soon enough every state should allow this as well. They are human too and shouldn't have their right to get married taken away just because of who they are attracted to.
I think it is ridiculous that Texas has closed down abortion clinics and have not let them reopen. It is a woman's right to do what they want with their body and make decisions for themselves. Women can even get pregnant while being on birth control. There are so many women that are also victims of rape and/or cannot afford a baby at that time in their life. If a woman cannot get an abortion the correct and healthy way, then they are going to be so desperate and find another way to get one. They could even risk their lives getting an abortion the wrong way. This could lead to more problems in the future. If men were put into this situation that women are in, they would be reacting the exact same way. Women's bodies should not be controlled by the government and that is what they are doing in this case.
I'm following the trend of the other blogs, should they decide to grant certiorari, I feel that the Supreme Court will rule in favor of gay marriage. My motto is do what makes you happy. Especially when it comes to marriage, i'm fairly religious, but like what kaitlyn said, "Like gay marriage a lot of people say they can't be married because the Bible says marriage can only be between a man and a woman. But that's a single groups religious belief. If I'm Hindu or Buddhist or atheist I can still get married because I'm straight. To me that's not fair." And I agree with Alyssa, I believe the Supreme Court will lean in favor with the states that allow for gay marriage. Religion should not be a part of the decision that goes into the case.
As far as abortion, I feel women should have the right to do whatever they please with their bodies. Like Amy said, to make abortion unavailable in clinics might resort to women placing themselves in dangerous situations. However, even while writing this I'm starting to second guess myself. I don't know how I feel with abortion. I hate the idea of it, but I understand if in certain situations why women may go that route. Whatever the decision is, the Supreme Court shouldn't rush their decision.
Samuel Z. Rubbelke
Summer I
I'm a little confused, as the blog topic was to discuss abortion but there is a lot of gay-marriage talk being thrown in here. Part of that may be due to the fact that the first link was about gay-marriage... Since it seems everyone has the gay-marriage part down, i'll focus on abortion.
If the supreme court grants certiorari, I believe it will be a highly heated debate amongst the justices, but ultimately ruling 6-3 in favor of legalizing abortion. I believe there is an undue burden placed on women by not allowing them to have abortions, or having them tell their husband, wait 24 hours, etc.
I am incapable of having a child, so I do not know what it is like to have a child growing inside of you. But from what I have learned about Roe v. Wade, sexual assaults and people who have children that probably shouldn't, I don't think it is the government's business, state or federal, to tell women how and what to do with their bodies. If you want to have your baby, more power to you, there are ample resources out there to help out. If you choose to abort your baby, more power to you. That is your choice, your life. Not mine, not anybody else's. While it may be unfortunate that a child is "taken out of this world before they even got a chance", it is the mother who makes this decision, and the mother created the child, so I believe it should be 100% legal. Pro-Choice for LIFE! (No pun intended)
John Willms
MC 4301 Summer Session I
I think that because the Supreme Court's purpose is to keep government in check and see that it doesn't become too powerful, they will rule in favor of same-sex marriage. If no one is being harmed and the relationship is consensual, the government should have no say in who a person loves. It is a private matter. Denying the LGBT community of their right to marry is unconstitutional.
I can't image any other decision to be made. I'd have to ask, who are we trying to protect here? Isn't the answer - all Americans? Which absolutely includes the LGBT community? I think so.
I hope the USSC grants certiorari and reconsiders putting any further restrictions on abortion clinics. Just as I asked before, who is being protected? It seems like the rights of the already living, breathing, contributing members of society are being put on the back burner because of what might or what could happen. I think we should focus on the health of women and families who already exist.
A woman's right to choose when she is ready to start a family is crucial for ending the perpetuation of poverty.
Sydney Huddleston
Summer I
With consideration that the USSC grants certiori, I strongly believe that the decision will rule in favor of gay marriage. With the large majority of the United States already being in favor, and the fact that we are evolving as a whole country by the means of understanding that gay marriage is mutually beneficial to the couple involved, we are taking steps in the right direction. I do not see why they would vote against gay marriage and take away (or make ideal) the 70% of America who is in favor.
Alexis Croker
Summer I
I hope that they decide to grant certiorari because I feel they should rule in favor of gay marriage. I've never understood why it's different for homosexuals rather than heterosexuals. You love who you love. You shouldn't be told who you can love. It all comes naturally and if someone likes someone else of the same sex, it should be okay! With 70% of the United States already having this legal, I feel like Texas will rule in favor. There is no harm in this act, so just make it okay for our friends to love and be happy with whoever they want :)
Ashleigh D.
Summer I
In regards to the gay marriage issue, I'm inclined to believe that the USSC will legalize same-sex marriage, based on the decision in the DOMA case and the fact that gay marriage has now been legalized in 36 states, plus the District of Columbia. I think that these precedents will lead the court to rule in favor of same-sex marriage.
As for the abortion issue, I'm less hopeful. Considering that these limitations are supposedly in the name of improving medical standards associated with facilities that conduct abortions, I'm worried that the court will not see these standards as an "undue burden". However, they could argue that while these standards do not create undue burden per se, that their implications could have the consequence of undue burden and by upholding these laws, that it would inevitably infringe on a woman's right to privacy and right to abortion (Roe v. Wade)
Jordan Gray, Summer I
When discussing these cases, I am really excited to see what the Supreme Court decides. I believe that the numbers will play a role in the minds of the Justices and they will soon be legalizing gay marriage. The article reads this: 70% of the states, including some "conservative" states, have already voted in favor of gay marriage. It also states that gay marriages have already been legalized in 36 states. I don't believe that the Supreme Court will simply overlook these facts in deciding to legalize gay marriage.
As for abortion, I am not so sure there will be a positive outcome for these rights. This topic, for some, means the killing or ending of a life and doesn't sit well with many who may see it that way. It is a very touchy topic, more so than that of gay marriage. If two people get married, they aren't killing or ending anyones life– well at least not literally. I think that there will continue to be a very long struggle between pro-life rights and abortion laws.
Jolynn G - Summer 1- 2015
First Gay Marriage; I feel as if this can go either way. But what it is going to depend on is what the USSC is going to define marriage as after it has decided the marriage act was unconstitutional. Then how will the states interpret it. Scalia is the wild card because I feel he keeps changing his view points with gay marriage and abortion.
Second Abortion; I think the Fifth Circuit will let the bill ride and revisit it next term. I hate to think of it like that but because of election primaries are beginning and candidates are jumping in this is going to be tabled till next term.
Robert Fraga
Summer I
What a day in American history! While the decision in favor of gay marriage doesn't directly affect me, it is nice to see the country broaden it's accepting horizons. This is a landmark case that our children will be discussing in G-Mart's class.
I must applaud the USSC for viewing the Constitution as a living document. Justice Kennedy wrote the majority opinion, in which he said, “the nature of injustice is that we may not always see it in our own times. The generations that wrote and ratified the Bill of Rights and the Fourteenth Amendment did not presume to know the extent of freedom in all of its dimensions, and so they entrusted to future generations a charter protecting the right of all persons to enjoy liberty as we learn its meaning.”
Trey Moehle
Summer I
Throughout our history,though the Constitution is law based, it seems that when judging on certain issues ones ethics has played a part in their decisions, so I believe the Supreme Court made the right decision by legalizing gay marriage in all 50 states. It was never constitutional for gay and lesbians to not have to civil right to marry.
I believe the court should eliminate abortion laws because it is not a matter of temporarily ceasing pro-creation, it is a matter of safety for women all over the nation. If a women is not ready for a child she will do what she has to in order to alleviate her dilemma, even if it means going to a back alley surgeon. So to insure the safety of women there should be no abortion laws, so that they can get the proper care they need if they decide to made that decision.
Amber C.
Summer 1
I'm definitely excited for the coming years now that the USSC has legalized gay marriage. It's nice to finally see some progression in the midst of so many terrible things going on. I'm hopeful that after this decision maybe the country can keep this positive momentum up and continue forward. In regards to abortion, it's a very hard thing to debate. We must decide what is considered human life. I feel we need to decide at which point a cell goes from being just a stem cell to a human. In my honest opinion i feel that choice should be left to the owner of the body. Also i feel there is a lot of progression we could make in science if we utilized stem cell research. Granted if a female has already been pregnant for sometime i feel that there should be some limit as to when someone can perform an abortion.
Steven P.
Summer 1
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right, in a close 5-4 vote. Travis County Clerk began issuing marriage licenses and had issued 50 marriage licenses to same-sex couples as of noon on Friday. Texas Governor Greg Abbot differs with the ruling of 5 Supreme Court Justices. I'm afraid that Texas will be cutting funds for this program as its done with planned parenthood in making abortions a burden in not providing the resources. Abbot Issued a memo to state agencies directing them to, "respect and preserve Texans religious liberties and First Amendment rights." What the governor fails to see is that this is not a religious crusade. It's about Americans who can now legally marry the person they love. It's about a right that everyone has and finally the Supreme Court has ruled in favor of equality.
I love that the swinging vote was Justice Kennedy and he provided the best closing opinion that brought tears to my eyes, "No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were. As some of the petitioners in these cases demonstrate, marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death. It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves. Their hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness, excluded from one of civilization’s oldest institutions. They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right."
Mireydi M.
Summer I
Samantha Vasquez
Summer 1
Glad to see that the Supreme Court ruled in favor of legalizing same sex marriage in all 50 states with a majority 5-4 vote. Feel like time has changed and expanded their thinking on that certain topic. Justice Kennedy stated that "No longer may this liberty be denied" and feel like it's a progress in the country. In regards to abortion, feel like it's the woman's choice to make that decision. With the requirements Texas would like to place upon the clinics feel like it's just limiting women's access to get an abortion.
First of all, I'm very glad that gay marriage has been legalized in our country. While the struggle for LGBT rights is not over, this is very much a big deal.
As for abortion, as someone who believes in women's choice, I hope that abortion remains constitutionally legal and that Roe v. Wade remains in tact. However, I feel that many states continually use various means to restrict access to abortions that I personally disagree with. Since we're in Texas, my hopes are a little less optimistic, but I do believe in the USSC's ability to rule justly.
Bridgette E.
MC 4301 Summer Session I
I believe the USSC decision is a victory not only for the people that directly benefit of the ruling but it is also for society in general. Of course there will be angry people, people who disagree (as seen even in the USSC 5-4 decision) but thats the beauty of freedom in my opinion. I consider this a victory for freedom and equality as people have gained a basic right that perhaps they should have had from the beggining. I personally do not see any problem with people getting more of their rights to be protected.
In my opinion, the decision by the Supreme Court to legalize gay marriage in all 50 states was the right and just one to make. Taking the right to marry away from one person and giving that same right to another simply because of one's sexual orientation is unconstitutional so I'm glad the majority of the court realized this and hope the four justices that did not vote for the legalization of gay marriage eventually see it that way as well.
As for the abortion issue, even though I don't necessarily agree with it, I do believe that if a woman is wanting to have an abortion, that she should at least be provided a safe way to have one. Closing that many clinics in Texas just means that women will have to use an alternative and possibly unhealthy way to have an abortion which could have negative effects on their bodies.
Colton T.
Summer I
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right, in a predictably close 5-4 vote. I was pleasantly surprised when it was revealed to be a unanimous decision across all 50 states as well. This then reflects that the Supreme Court’s views seem to be in line with the majority of our nation; which makes (for the most part) a happy country. I believe that as our nation and society evolves we tend to steer towards a more accepting and open-minded direction. If our legislation and government can continue to keep this same pace, then much more progression is in store.
When decisions on the preservation or termination of a human life arise, extra care should be taken throughout our legislative process. As of today women have the right of privacy to legally get an abortion, which is of course implied by the Bill of Rights and upheld by Roe v. Wade. There seems to be a trend in our nation’s history, of legislators finding a round-about-way to limit laws that are not in line with their specific beliefs. In this case state legislatures have passed laws that appear to restrict access to abortion. As these restrictions make it difficult for women in Texas to get abortions; this is a perfect example of legislators attempting what I view as a shortcut, which I do not believe the USSC is too fond of. Moreover closing ten seemingly safe abortion clinics is a bit on the extreme side in my opinion. If safety is of main concern in regards to this legal procedure, then it would make sense to keep as many well-run clinics in business as possible, preventing unsafe procedures. With a possible review by the U.S. Supreme Court in our future I feel as though the court will detect any sort of underhanded legislation if it indeed exists. Though if the court only addresses whether the Texas law creates an "undue burden" on a woman's right to have an abortion, I could possibly see where attempting to increasing the standards in clinics, might not qualify as a burden.
Morgan B. Summer 1
I am happy to say that the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in favor of same-sex marriage being constitutional and protected. Had I commented before the ruling, I would have guessed that they would have voted the same way. I think that the majority of the Court understands that the world is changing and in order for the United States to remain true to the principles it was founded upon, equal rights for everyone is the right direction.
As for the abortion case, given the Court's stance on same-sex marriage, I hope they will intervene and do what is necessary to provide the private choice of a woman to have an abortion without undue burden. Reducing the amount of locations that can provide women in Texas with an abortion seems like undue burden to me. The proponents of the laws in question may site that they are only looking out for the interest of women by placing roadblock after roadblock in front of them, but it seems quite clear to me that this is a thinly-veiled attempt at covering up the fact that they are letting personal bias against the act of abortion influence their decisions to take away women's rights.
Curtis Ferguson - Summer 1
Well as we saw last week the Supreme Court voted 5-4 in favor of gay marriage which is something that should have happened long ago in my opinion, but better late than never I suppose.
In regards to the abortion case I think the supreme court will rule in favor of privacy for those who choose to receive an abortion. I don't think the government should be able to tell you that you can't have one. I think there are certain circumstances where abortion really is the best or only option to go so to put these undue burdens on the people who are going through something traumatic is truly unfair and unconstitutional.
Abortion is a very sensitive subject, so a part of me feels like with the progress in America, the government might grant cert on this subject (and following right after the legalization of gay marriage!). However, another part of me thinks perhaps not. When dealing with abortion, a lot of conservatives focus on the morals involved with abortion--the termination of a potential contributor to society. It's a compelling argument to halt the the discussion. I believe it will be a little harder for some abortion clinics to remain open just because of certain regional areas. Also, the fact the article notes they are looking at medical and surgical standards of abortion clinics could possibly impose an undue burden for women who are seeking these kinds of services. From my personal experience, I don't advocate abortion (it's my personal opinion). However, the world can be an evil place, and bad things happen to good people. I believe there should be more options for women who are facing unwanted pregnancies that are safe. Let's offer women (and families) the proper resources to make the best decision for themselves, and if that means an abortion, then I'd rather see safe, professional clinics than women putting themselves in danger by getting "back-alley abortions."
Abigail N
Summer 1
I was also very excited to hear that marriage is now guaranteed for the LGBT community. I was not surprised that the court's ruling was 5-4 considering the controversial nature of the issue. I think that if the court grants certiorari for the abortion case it will also come down to a 5-4 decision. The court seems to be more of a liberal court, and I feel that the court would see that these Texas laws are unreasonably restricting the rights of women to get abortions that was guaranteed to them in Roe v. Wade.
Brittany Baig
Summer 1
Elysia Cowle SSI
Okay, so the supreme court on Friday ruled that same-sex marriage is constitutional throughout the U.S., which is no surprise to me. The Obergefell v. Hodges case was 5/4 decision. It only makes sense to me that the Supreme court would grant certiorari, because it's a person's right to be treated equally and fairly for loving whoever they love. As time goes on, the general outlook changes with the generations and laws will change with it.
According to undue burden and Roe v. Wade, I think every woman has a right to an abortion. A woman has a decision on what to do with her body, and frankly there may be circumstances (rape, can't afford a child, drug users, teenage pregnancy) where it is necessary to have the right to do so. Depriving woman of availability of these clinics can lead to a more detrimental problem than abortion. It can potentially make woman try in house abortions that not only rid the baby but kill the mothers. I think it's sexist and unjust not to have that option readily available to women without the emotional burden of how Texas has it set up.
I'm posting this after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of gay and lesbians rights to get married anywhere in the United States. However, even before the decision was made, I still believed that the Supreme Court should rule in favor of this. The world is constantly evolving and it was definitely time in the year of 2015 to prevail this issue. Everyone criticizes the LBGT community, but what makes them less of a human than a straight person? I am couldn't be happier that the Court made this historic decision in pursuit of tackling other controversial issues.
Greg A.
Summer I
First of all, I'm ecstatic about people being able to marry whomever they feel happy with. Whether it be a woman and man or two people of the same sex. Yes, everyone has their opinions/beliefs but 70% of our states had already legalized gay marriage. I'm glad and supportive of being apart of history.
As for the other topic, I understand that it may be difficult to have a child at a young age but as a woman we should still have the right to have options. It's a woman's body and one should decide what to do with what she's about to bear. Yes, there are complications/side effects that come along with it, but if a woman's not ready to bring a new life to this world, then she should be able to make her own decisions. Being in Texas sort of brings my hopes down, but I do believe the USSC will rule justly.
Vianei N. Garcia
SSI
Friday was a monumental day for America, and I am truly proud to be able to say I was able to witness the day gay marriages were legalized. Although it was a close ruling, I believe it truly shows that America is continuing to move in the direction our generation believes it should be going in.
As far as the abortion topic goes, I truly believe the USSC will, again, make the right choice and will rule that women are entitled the right to have an abortion if they so choose. While I, myself, have not been in the situation of having to make that decision, I most certainly do not see it to be fair for anyone else to be able to tell me that I could not have an abortion if that was the choice I made.
Aside from it just being completely wrong that men in suits are making serious decisions that will/could dramatically affect a woman's life, if abortion is banned it will only increase the number of unsafe and potentially life threatening procedures that will take place.
While this is always going to be a very sensitive topic, I hope the USSC will continue to make rulings that make me proud to be an American.
Lauren Curry
Summer 1
After reading the Associated Press article and reviewing the courts decision regarding to gay marriage on Friday, the USSC ruled in favor of gay marriage. According to the New York Times, I feel that they ruled in favor of gay marriage because many people in our society are pro gay marriage and many people believe that you should be able to spend the rest of your life with the person you want to marry, just as in a woman and male relationship. Its a right to be able to love and marry whoever you would like to love.
After reading the Lyle Denniston article, I believe that every woman has a right or say to what she does with her body. Accidents can happen, and the bottom line is that a woman should be able to make her own choices with her body because as Elysia Cowle was saying, getting rid of abortion clinics will just cause more detrimental problems for society and mothers who are pregnant. I think that the USSC will rule in favor of keeping abortion clinics, because maybe they will believe that its a womans right to have an abortion after a certain growth period.
Taylor Torbert
Summer I
After reading the article about abortion, I am completely shocked that people think they have the right to choose what women can do with their body. It takes alot of guts for a women to get one in the first place, it's bad enough that there's protestors standing outside abortion clinics making women fell bad for getting one. I believe the USSC will rule in favor of women and keep the abortion clinics open. Society today is so jugdemental and i do not understand why someone's opinion about gay marriage and getting abortion directly affects their lives.
Vanessa Cale
Summer 1
Veronica R.
Summer 1
Friday, the Supreme Court ruled that Gay marriage is to be considered legal in all 50 states and indeed constitutional. I believe they ruled this way because as a country, we can not tell people who to love. If two people who just happen to be the same sex wanna get married, who cares? What or who is it hurting? If they love each other why shouldn't they be allowed to show it and be recognized as a couple. The gay community should have no less rights than any person who is straight.
As for the Abortion Law, this has always been a touchy subject for all. I believe that the USSC will rule in favor of keeping the abortion clinics open and allowing those that were closed to re-open. The reason I believe this is because of the right of privacy. The government cannot interfere with a persons privacy which includes their bodies. Although, this remains a moral issue for some, when you look at it from a legal standpoint, I believe the USSC will keep the clinics.
Christybeth Cabrera
Summer I
I'm truly proud of our country for making history on friday. Although not everyone agrees with this decision no one can take this victory away from LGBT community and all of their supporters.
Although I myself wouldn't know what to do in a abortion situation, I think women shouldn't have their rights taken away from them. Getting rid of the clinics could cause some women to cause even more damages to themselves in extreme measures. I hope the court rules in a justly manner.
I am writing over the Supreme Court ruling in favor on gay and lesbian rights allowing those to marry anywhere in the United States. Which I am actually satisfied with the ruling of 5-4, it didn't perplex me that the Supreme court granted certiorari. The government shouldn't discriminate against the LBGT community. They are as much of a human being as any straight person is. It's any person's right to be treated with equal respect regardless of sexual orientation. Our society is constantly changing along with generations to come, resulting in changes of the law. I hope for future sake, that as a society constantly evolving there will be a continuation of good change.
Mary B.
Summer I
Summer 1
I find it intriguing that here we are learning about landmark cases like NYT V. Sullivan that laid out the foundation of Libel. We just witnessed and are living through one of the most historic landmark decisions that was made on Friday by the USSC ruling in a 5-4 vote to legalize same-sex marriage in the United States. I imagine future generations will look back on this decision and see the impact it has done.It may even open the door to greater things that will changed society in itself as it is already happening. This has altered traditions and it comes as no surprise that the USSC has ruled in favor of same-sex marriage given the culture which we live in, and what has become more susceptible in society.
Margie E.
Naomi R.
Summer 1 Session
I believe the Supreme Court granted certiorari with a 5-4 ruling for same-sex marriage because many of the states had already been voting in favor of it. For many years now, same-sex marriage has been pushed and pushed, I believe it was finally time to recognize it as it should be. I feel like congress was just finally tired of continuing to go through the process of fighting same-sex marriage; therefore, they've voted in favor to allow same-sex marriage to avoid the debate any longer. Though they ruled in favor, there are still limitations, like not everyone "has" to marry them if they so choose not to. I think this was just away to come to compromise to end it all.
As for the abortion topic, I think the USSC will rule in favor to allow abortion clinics to remain open. To take away a woman's right to choose whether she wants or doesn't want to remain pregnant seems like taking away not only a right to privacy, but just the personal right to choice in general. This topic is a very touchy topic, but I don't think the USSC will take away the right and freedom a women has to choose to bring life into this world. The U.S. is based on being a "free" country, that includes the right to choose when it comes to personal decisions like that. Although abortion is seen wrong by some, it's still a "choice" a women should have since it involves "her" personal, private life. I don't feel like the law of the land needs to make important choices like that for a woman. Abortion is not OK in every instance, but I do believe there are some instances that abortion is required. Since the law does not pick and choose who the law applies to, it's not fair to take that choice away from "every" woman.
Allowing same sex marriage vs. allowing abortion is no contest. Love wins or murder wins. Now I am not saying that I am for same-sex marriage because I do follow the Bible... BUT it is a new world. I am happy for my friends that can now live a completely normal life.
Now for abortion...unless it is a rape or the baby has no chance to survive it is wrong and never should be okay.
Makensie Hinkle
Summer 1
Dieuxvan Nguyen
Summer 1
As everyone know already, USSC passed gay right marriages! AWESOME FOR THEM! Now i would like to shift to the concern of women rights. Another hot button topic that almost no one can ever agree on. But shouldn't we stick with what the Supreme Court Ruled on Roe V. Wade as our precedent? Why continue to try to ALTER the decision by making it difficult to get abortions.
What a lot of people don't understand is that these clinics that are mandated to shut down because of abortion restrictions, it is also closing down a way for women to get contraceptives and annual exams. A lot of these clinics help women with no insurance.
I did a research on what women are doing as alternatives of abortion and let's just say, I am mortified that they most likely will die in the process. Women have been known to stick sharp objects inside their cervix and they have also been known to drive to Mexico to get black market abortion pills but the pills sometimes can backfire.
It should be the women private rights to decide what she wants to do with her body! I don't understand this society where they are completely focused on OTHER'S lives than their own. What does their personal choices have anything to do with yours? I hope the Supreme Court will pick up this case because all the lower courts need a review about what the Constitution states.
I am incredibly happy that the USSC found gay-marriage to be constitutionally protected. I the same as many of my classmates, this was inevitable. We discussed that the constitution is a living thing, and is always evolving. The world around it is constantly evolving as well, with shifting ideologies and lifestyle this was bound to happen, and it's about time. 70% of our states can't all be wrong.
I persona;;y feel this abortion decision is an invasion of privacy and should be overturned. I feel the USSC is saying one thing and doing another. We preach independence and the right to privacy, but no now forcing ladies to jump through more hurdles to make a life changing decision. I don't believe it is the right of anyone to tell someone else to do with their bodies. Most people who have children are not in a position to raise more children, least we forget about rape victims. I do not condone abortion, but I do not condone taking away some ones right to their body.
Potter, Andrew
Summer 1
I think Justice Kennedy said it best when he stated his reasoning behind his vote on gay marriage for all 50 states. He said, "It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves." I, like many others, am happy with the Supreme Court's ruling on gay marriage. I think all people should have equal opportunity, and it should not be assumed that gays thinks any less of the sanctity of marriage than straight people. This is a moment going down in history and one day our children and grandchildren will think that is was crazy that gay marriage was ever illegal, just as we think it is ridiculous that African Americans and other minorities were ever treated so poorly just because of the color of their skin. Although the 5-4 vote was close, I think the rest of the nation will slowly but surely follow suit and come to terms with the idea of gay marriage.
Kayla L.
Summer I
I'm very happy that the USSC ruled 5-4 to passing same-sex marriage. It shows democracy working well. The government passed legislation that the majority of americans, including myself, approve of. It goes to show the the constitution really is a living document that evolves over time to reflect the opinions and will of the people.
Larzelere, Kyle
Summer 1
What I find the most interesting about this whole Supreme Court ordeal is the backlash and the extremes some people go to show their discontent. One Texas pastor, Rick Scarborough, even said he would "burn to death rather than accept gay marriage." He even goes as far as saying: "The preachers need to get out front, the leaders need to get out front, out front of these ordinary citizens and say, 'Shoot me first'."
Damn.
Gov. Mike Huckabee has also been blowing up his Twitter ranting about the Supreme Court decisions on both gay marriage and ObamaCare. He goes on to say how the Supreme Court is trying to "play God's role" and is attempting to "redefine" marriage.
All in all, these extremes make for some very interesting reads. As for me, I don't really care about any of these things, I judge and size up a person based on how they are, not who they are. Just my two cents.
Eihab S.
Summer 1
Well the USSC ruled in favor of gay marriage and I'm very happy about that. It's about time that everyone has the right to love and be loved by whoever they choose. I know it's been a long struggle for the LGBT, but in the more recent years, we've seen a major shift in acceptance and I'm glad that people are finally coming around to accepting people for their differences. I see nothing but positive things coming from this ruling.
As for the abortion, I believe it will remain a choice for woman as to whether or not they want to have an abortion. I understand not everyone agrees with abortion, but that does no't mean that others can't have one. I personally have mixed feelings about it, but who am I to say someone shouldn't have an abortion? I believe that if someone does not believe that they are not fit for parenting, for whatever reason, then there's no reason for them to have the child. However, there needs to be rules on how many times a person can have an abortion. I don't believe it's something that someone should be doing multiple times.
Tyler W
Summer I
Kristen Symmank, Summer I.
I feel the supreme court will give the Texas the delay on abortion clinic restriction, but only a delay. I think the requirements that they need good surgical equipment and good doctors is not too much to ask for. If were going to have abortion clinics they might as well be good abortion clinics. If the ruling would close all of the click that didn't meet that standard it would make it very hard for people in trouble to get abortions, and i don't think that is what the court is trying to do.
I am extremely proud of my country for passing gay marriage. The United States is a free country and now it feels more free. The main argument against this seems to be that it is not godly, but the separation of church and state has proved to be a good thing, so oh well. I am happy. A lot of my friends say their parents aren't happy about this ruling, but they are, and that seems to be a trend. It makes me so proud of my generation to have our own morals and ideas, while respectfully letting our parents have theirs.
- Kristen
Salinas Summer I
I believe when it comes to abortion it is and should always be a womens option. Yes I understand the religious reasons why some would be opposed but at the end of the day there is a desperation of church and state and that is how it should be. The court should grant certiorari and hopefully one day the courts will rule to protect this right.
I'm happy with the results on allowing gay couples to get married in every state. I personally thought it'd be a long time before I saw this go into effect in the state of Texas. If two people are happily in love, they should have every right to get married if they choose to do so. This is another basic step in the civil rights movement.
Also, it is undoubtedly a woman's decision as to whether she should have an abortion or not. It's an extremely touchy subject, but I can't help but feel that it is a personal choice, and not someone's religious/personal belief, that should get in the way.
Austin Y.
Summer I
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