We should all take a cue from Governor Paterson of New York, when he promises “It’s always darkest before the dawn.”  It’s refreshing to hear such optimism from an equal right’s proponent in high places, even on such a disheartening day as Wednesday was in New York.

Despite Paterson’s efforts to fight for the right’s of homosexuals to marry, the same-sex marriage bill was voted down in New York on Wednesday.  Supporters of the bill predicted a close vote going into Wednesday’s Senate debate, but unfortunately the margin was a bit wider then expected.  By the unanimous voices of the Republicans and 8 of Paterson’s fellow Democrats, the bill was voted down 38 – 24.

Only one senator actually spoke in opposition to the bill during the debate.  Senator Ruben Diaz, a Democrat and Pentecostal minister, claimed “If we take it to the people, the people oppose it.” 

Sen. Ruben Diaz opposes same-sex marriage

Senator Eric Adams, a Brooklyn Democrat, fired back that most of the 31 states Diaz cited as voting against legalizing same-sex marriage “at one time or another sold blacks into slavery.  Because the majority is in one place does not mean they’re in the right place.  We’re in a position now where we have to lead the country to the right place.”

Sen. Eric Adams rallys for Human Rights

 New York would have been the 6^th state to legalize same-sex marriage, but now joins the others in denying same-sex couples the right to marry.  Despite this hiccup in the campaign for equal rights, we must recognize that each year the margin narrows more and more in the votes.  So yes, it may be dark now but we can definitely see the sun rising in the distance.