President Discusses Marriage Protection Amendment

OK. I know that President Bush's command of the English language isn't exactly superb, but does this make any sense?

President Discusses Marriage Protection Amendment
As this debate goes forward, every American deserves to be treated with tolerance and respect and dignity. (Applause.) On an issue of this great significance, opinions are strong and emotions run deep. And all of us have a duty to conduct this discussion with civility and decency toward one another. All people deserve to have their voices heard and a constitutional amendment will ensure that they are heard.
(emphasis added)

Sorry, but a constitutional amendment does nothing of the sort. In fact, it does just the opposite. It ensures that the minority voices are silenced.

Our constitution defines our system of government. It was not intended to enforce morals. The 18th amendment was a failed attempt at institutionalizing morals. Why do we want to try it again? Regardless of how you feel on the subject of the definition of marriage, I don't see how the constitution is the right place to address it.

Of course, I don't try to hide the fact that I don't see anything wrong with allowing gay marriage. In fact, I see many benefits to it. (that's a topic for another post.) As do many others. That's why I think we need open debate on the issue, not an attempt to beat down all opposing voices.