Marriage Quote by John Corvino
““It is not surprising that efforts to keep gay, lesbian, and bisexual people in their place arise in the wedding context. Sexual orientation is a relational property; it’s about the sex or gender of the people with whom you have relationships or desire to have relationships. It manifests itself in the context of those relationships, and unless it manifests itself, would-be discriminators can’t target it.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast “Queer Voices”, 2023
Sexual orientation is defined by the gender of partners, so discrimination often appears in contexts like marriage where relationships are visible.
In simple terms: Orientation depends on partners; discrimination shows up in marriage.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how relationship contexts expose bias.
Themes
equality
sexuality
discrimination
relationships
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
educational
When to use this quote
- wedding planning
- legal policy
- educational workshops
- media analysis
Key Concepts
gender theory
social constructs
Questions to Reflect On
- How does focusing on marriage limit broader anti‑discrimination efforts?
- What other contexts reveal similar biases?
A Different Perspective
Discrimination can also occur outside formal relationships, making it harder to address.
![“I don't like being away from home. That's one reason why I don't work as much as I used to [when I started my career], because so many things are on the road. I just don't want to be away from my husband, my dogs and my home. I don't sing that much any more because that also takes you on the road.” quote by Jane Powell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/07c/jane-powell-36243_away_i-don-t-like-being-away-from-home-that-s_278.jpg)
