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Some might say that we are in the midst of a culture war. I could not agree more. The Hall of Presidents at Disney World's Magic Kingdon reminds me of this. And the lessons that we as a society have yet to learn.

At the Hall of Presidents the audience is reminded about the beliefs this country is founded on. A movie highlights President Lincoln's unique wisdom about all American people. His actions epitomize this and history has made its judgement. It also reminds of a bloody time in United States history. A time when some peoples' beliefs about the rights of slaves resulted in violence. Another time of war - the Civil War. So at the very end of the attraction it is fitting for an animated President Lincoln to address the crowd. And before him, a representation of the current president always addresses the audience.

So in August 2006, at a trip to Disney World it is important for me to see what an animated President Bush might have to say at the Hall of Presidents. This leader speaks about all American people yet his actions - along with those of other individuals, judges, and lawmakers - support keeping equal rights away from some in these United States. What a great contrast to have President Lincoln follow President Bush, and a great sign of the times.

Shouldn't take much intelligence for today's leaders, lawmakers, judges, etc. to put all this into context:

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. (Abraham Lincoln, The Gettysburg Address, November 19, 1863, showcase.netins.net/web/creative/lincoln/speeches/gettysburg.htm)

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. (Declaration of Independence, www.archives.gov/national-archives-experience/charters/declaration_transcript.html)

Amendment I
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.. (U.S. Constitution Bill Of Rights, www.archives.gov/national-archives-experience/charters/bill_of_rights_transcript.html)

Some would call marriage a "package deal." When will "We The People" learn to keep religious institutions and civil contracts separate in this deal, and treat them that way? What will it take, and how many people will suffer in the process? Lesbian, gay, and bisexual people - transgender, intersex or otherwise - are a part of human society, ever present throughout cultures and throughout history. Some enter into long-term, committed relationships and deserve the same rights as all opposite-sex couples that choose to enter into civil contracts. Contracts regardless of religion that grant many rights and privileges to the two individuals in that union.

We are not some passing fad -- we exist throughout the world. What part of ALL do we not understand? We must remain vigilant and active in keeping this nation fair and equal for everyone. It's that simple.