It would create great uncertainty for both the couple and those who deal with them regarding their legal status. While the harm to these couples and their children is clear, the claims of the Knight Initiative's proponents that society would suffer by recognition of these marriages are not supported by the facts. Contrary to the claims of the Initiative's proponents, not recognizing these marriages would undermine California policy towards marriage and children. The state has a special interest in supporting the commitments of those who have married. The Knight Initiative raises issues of deep emotional significance.
Marriage has great symbolic as well as practical meaning.
We all have a vision of what marriage means. Legal rights and obligations are only a small part of that understanding. In the coming years, Californians undoubtedly will be asked to consider how to recognize and protect the relationships of the hundreds of thousands of gay and lesbian couples, and their children, living in our communities. Much public discussion will be needed. The Initiative is the wrong way to begin this process.