Letters: Lukewarm praise for Todd Young's support of Marriage Act

In response to Sen. Todd Young’s guest column, “New Respect for Marriage Act will protect everyone” published in the Tribune on Dec. 4, I would like to offer a few thoughts. First, to Young I offer lukewarm kudos for finally standing up to some of his Republican colleagues and voting for this act. It is the right thing to do.

However, Young must be taken to task for continued kowtowing to “Christians” who need his blessing to continue discriminatory practices against same-sex couples. Young offered the text of the act verbatim, issuing assurances that Christians may discriminate to their hearts content without being afraid of diminished religious liberties or losing their tax-exempt status.

Young offers one final promise by saying, “Dignity and respect are not a zero-sum proposition. We can and should strive to ensure all citizens enjoy them in equal measure.” If Young truly believed these words, then I challenge him to pen a column about how much he believes pregnant people deserve the same equal protections.

Jean DeWinter

South Bend

Serenity

This is a wearisome time when “Democrat” and “Republican” are being used as terms of derision and contempt, without any concern for the well-being of others. Unfortunately, it is just one of the many manifestations of “us vs. them” from the beginning of time, which exacerbates isolation, loneliness and estrangement.

As we gather around tables during this season of celebrations, look carefully behind the half-smile and into one another’s eyes. I have noticed signs of deep sorrow and apprehension. Someone is dealing with cancer. Another is trying to manage unrelenting grief. A business is failing. A parent has dementia. Best friends no longer have anything they can talk about. Two chairs are empty this year. Let us remember that we are sisters and brothers, neighbors and friends, humans laboring together in this messy, distressing, and beautiful thing called life −and we really do need each other. This year, may we listen more intently, hug more warmly and love more openly. May serenity pay a visit to your home this year.

Stephen BarberPlymouth

Book bags

As a former resident of South Bend and teacher at LaSalle High School and Penn, I read the South Bend Tribune online daily. I've seen stories about students entering school with guns. A simple solution seems to be overlooked. Students don't need book bags. Never had one and managed to carry my books home while walking a mile plus to and from school. Ban book bags.

South Bend schools received significant funds in the past few years. Installing metal detectors at each entrance would deter even the idea of bringing a weapon to school. Unless the schools step up to change how students enter and conceal weapons, more crimes will cause chaotic/fatal conditions. Save young lives at any cost has to be the mindset today.

Rebecca HartmanClermont, Fla.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Todd Young's support for Respect for Marriage Act gets lukewarm praise.