Marvel and the state of Georgin

Today’s blog is different from what I usually post.  I don’t usually do news stories, but I felt I had to respond to a story that is on the internet.

 
 The state of Georgia is considering enacting a law called the “Free Exercise Protection Act.”  This act would offer protection to faith-based organizations that refuse to provide services that they say violates their beliefs, including same sex marriages. 
Disney and Marvel, inclusive companies have threatened to take their business out of Georgia if such a law is passed.

I have been a fan of Marvel since I was old enough to read a comic.  They’ve come a long way since then, but they are still basically the same.  That is why what they are threatening to do really disturbs me.

First, I don’t like it when big business tries to bully a state.  People who live in Georgia should have the right to determine what is right for their state, not an outside business.  If the individuals connected to Marvel and live in Georgia want to protest the passage of this law that is fine.  They have a right.  Marvel should stay out of politics!

With almost any law there are parts of it that may be considered bad.  That is why it is essential that the wording be examined to make it as fair as possible.  Though I don’t like the idea of Marvel getting involved I think that if Marvel has a problem with the law they should get their attorneys to look over how the law is written and to determine what compromises can be made.

I agree with the bulk of the law.  I do not believe that a minister should be forced to perform ceremonies that is against his or her faith.  Nor do I believe that he or she should be forced to hire others who would be in a supportive nature (deacons, assistant pastor, teachers) who do not believe in the core values of the church.  Faith based meeting places, however, that are open to the public should be open to anyone regardless of how they believe.

I understand that there is some concern that discrimination against gays will increase because of this law.  I can’t say that it won’t, but the people’s right to their belief should also be considered.

My opinion is that if a service is performed (such as distribution of food to the poor, counseling, medical, educational) it should be for all.  I believe that most religious facilities already do that.

If we force religious institutions to behave the way the government wants them to then we become one step closer to a one government religion.  This law seems to me to be an effort to prevent such a thing.

​If Marvel doesn’t agree with such a law they should work on changing the minds and hearts of people not on bullying them.  Sometimes when you push people they push back!