Differing opinions on religious-liberty bill

I thoroughly enjoyed Marilyn Daniel’s commentary on Senate Bill 180 (which permits discrimination against gays) appearing with Martin Cothran’s in the March 21 Herald-Leader. The comparison between the two was telling.

One piece stuck to facts and law to make a solid point and was a clear and concise argument that made sense. The other was an inarticulate, inaccurate and overreaching argument with shortsightedness and falsehoods its only strengths. One showed concern, compassion and the love for all of God’s children. The other used tired talking points that further exposed the cult of ignorance, bigotry and fake-Christian ideology that is running through our culture.

I also found it interesting that people caught up in this cult attack the Herald-Leader instead of the merits of its argument. That approach is universally known as “failing to win your argument.” Of course, groups like the horribly misnamed Family Foundation are interested only in justifying their bad behavior.

I realize that everyone in our culture should have a voice, if for no other reason than for some to serve as examples of how not to act as human beings. But, even with that caveat, I would be in favor of adding a separate Herald-Leader section just for the “our ignorance is just as good as your knowledge” crowd. Set it off and mark it well so the rest of us can avoid the nonsense, and they can find comfort talking among themselves.

This story was originally published April 7, 2016 at 7:27 PM with the headline "Differing opinions on religious-liberty bill."