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The time has come in our society when I see great wisdom…

“The time has come in our society when I see great wisdom and purpose in a United States Constitutional amendment declaring that marriage is between a man and a woman. There is nothing in that proposed amendment that requires a criminal prosecution or that directs the attorneys general to go out…” quote by Dallin H. Oaks
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“The time has come in our society when I see great wisdom and purpose in a United States Constitutional amendment declaring that marriage is between a man and a woman. There is nothing in that proposed amendment that requires a criminal prosecution or that directs the attorneys general to go out and round people up, but it declares a principle and it also creates a defensive barrier against those who would alter that traditional definition of marriage.”

Dallin H. Oaks

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A constitutional amendment defining marriage traditionally serves as a symbolic defense of cultural values without imposing criminal penalties.

In simple terms: Traditional marriage definition protects cultural values symbolically.

Key Takeaway

Support cultural symbols while respecting rights.

Themes

tradition law culture rights

Mood

thoughtful balanced

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • legislative debates
  • community dialogues
  • faith discussions

Key Concepts

constitutional law social ethics public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies honor tradition and inclusion?
  • What legal forms best protect both?
A Different Perspective

May marginalize non‑traditional families.

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