California’s ‘Kill The Gays’ Initiative Sparks Outrage
California’s “Kill the Gays” initiative has become a point of heated controversy. Officially called the Sodomite Suppression Act, the initiative suggests executing homosexuals “by bullets to the head or by any other convenient method.” Although the initiative is unusual, it is not a joke.
The Sodomite Suppression Act was written and filed by attorney Matt McLaughlin. It was received by California’s Office of the Attorney General on February 26.
In his summary, McLaughlin explains that sodomy is forbidden by “Almighty God,” and therefore threatens the very safety of the nation. He cites the story of Sodom and Gomorrha, which is discussed in the Old Testament.
In an effort to protect the citizens of California from certain destruction, McLaughlin suggests “that any person who willingly touches another person of the same gender for purposes of sexual gratification be put to death.”
California’s “Kill the Gays” initiative would also outlaw the distribution of “sodomistic propaganda.” McLaughlin suggests a fine of $1 million, imprisonment for up to 10 years, and permanent expulsion from the state for those who violate the proposed law.
McLaughlin further suggests banning homosexuals from public service, public employment, and receiving public benefits.
In his summary, McLaughlin explains that the Sodomite Suppression Act was designed to protect the citizens of California from “God’s just wrath.”
Who is the mysterious lawyer behind California’s “kill all gays” drive? http://t.co/lKhg9hgwFl pic.twitter.com/SfwcPufRx0
— Talking Points Memo (@TPM) March 26, 2015
As it remains a point of heated controversy, California’s “Kill the Gays” initiative is unlikely to receive the 365,000 signatures required by law.
California Attorney General Kamala Harris is also taking steps to quash the controversial initiative. In an official statement, Harris said the Sodomite Suppression Act is “patently unconstitutional, utterly reprehensible, and has no place in a civil society.”
Some California lawyer, Matt McLaughlin, legitimately proposed a bill to kill all gays and lesbians. I quit this species and this planet
— Ryan Kramme (@kramme_ryan) March 26, 2015
In her statement, the Attorney General further explains that the “Kill the Gays” initiative “threatens public safety.” As it is her sworn duty to “protect the rights of all Californians,” Harris said she simply cannot certify the act.
Harris said she intends to file an action for declaratory relief. If granted, the relief will allow the Attorney General’s office to effectively quash McLaughlin’s initiative.
California’s “Kill the Gays” initiative is not likely to make it to next year’s ballot. However, the Sodomite Suppression Act continues to gain a lot of attention.
[Image via Shutterstock]
