Constitution is the law

I have read many defensive letters posted in your paper regarding the so-called religious liberty issue and a baker. Often, they cite religious works or some omnipotent being as “credentials” to defend the baker’s case and his dislike of homosexuals.

I am glad to say that the one document that unites us and provides the proper answer is the U.S. Constitution, and that the single most important right espoused in this document and in our country is the fundamental belief in the importance of equality and its rigorous application. Even religious fanatics must admit that their own sacred text includes the message that we should do unto others as they would do unto us.

The Constitution and the premise of equality is the supreme law of this land. Religions, philosophies, attitudes, and actions must give this priority. Otherwise, bigotry, hate and mistreatment of our citizens will occur. And that is the real perversion we must fight. The perversion of denying justice, fairness and equality for all. Bigotry is the toxic evil in our society that drives this injustice. It’s based in that most deceitful and devilish of human emotions—hate.

The baker thought otherwise and he was wrong. He may twist his religion in order to think so or he may mistakenly believe that he is better than other American citizens, but he still is violating the rights and dignity of another citizen in doing so.

Disguising hate as religious liberty no longer fools us. And if you think it does, you’re the fool. Pointing to the heavens to hide the dark prejudices of your own soul does not give you rights, nor is it right. When your heart is diseased with fear and bigotry, it swells with intolerance and injustice. The cure? Freedom from dehumanizing prejudice. Equality—now and forever.

No equality, no justice. Know equality, know justice.

JAKE TIDMORE

Little Rock