Respect your anti-gay-marriage opinion? No, I will not.
Channel: firefly4f4
Date: 2014-01-29

As for the comparisons between Macklemore and Phil Robertson, first, I do NOT agree with A&E firing him (albeit that was rescinded).  STILL...

1) Macklemore self-publishes his music.  As such, he can say what he wants.  See the entirety of, "Can't Hold Us" -- he's not beholden to a label.  Phil is employed by A&E, and is therefore beholden to their standards.
2) Phil WAS given a platform.  No one prevented him from saying it.  However, having a platform doesn't exempt you from the consequences.  See point 1.
3) The FEDERAL GOVERNMENT cannot (per US 1st amendment and similar in other countries) restrict unpopular opinions, and they did not.  A&E is a private company.  GQ, which printed Phil's interview, is a private company.  Radio and TV stations playing Macklemore's songs are private companies.  The Grammy's are awarded by a privately-run organization.  Said organizations have their OWN rules and standard, and can also enforce those as they see fit, including maintaining an image they wish to present.  Therefore, presenting opinions contrary to a private company's opinion can, when you are representing said company, lead to consequences.

So, you're trying to hold private companies beholden to the rules of the government.  That doesn't work.  Yes, I'm possibly simplifying.

Not to mention:

4) Macklemore is singing about how a group of people should be given a privilege they've been denied, and be free to love as they see fit.  Phil is saying they're in sin, and drawing comparisons to it and bestiality.  No, there is NO COMPARISON between consenting adults in a committed relationship, and sexual intercourse with animals.

So, no, I REJECT and have NO RESPECT for those expressing that opinion.