06.11.08
this will change our lives, west siders. make it happen!!
06.02.08
improve the economy and promote social justice
Since California’s Supreme Court recently affirmed Gavin Newsom’s law-breaking same sex marriages in 2004, same sex couples are lining up to get married, creating a unique situation where social justice meets economics.
Wedding planners, bakers and hotels began booking more business almost immediately after the state Supreme Court’s May 15 decision overturning a ban on gay marriage. Citing pent-up demand, one UCLA study projects that same-sex unions could provide a $370-million shot in the arm to the state economy over the next three years.
Add to this the fact that California will allow anyone, from any state, to be married, and we are looking at an uptick in the hotel and travel business as well. Some of these businesses may ignore Adam Smith’s “invisible hand,” and out of prejudice, and pass along the business to another, eager vendor. But I suspect, as the recession continues and gas prices escalate more, some of these businesses will cave in and suppress their prejudice for good, hard power of the competitive marketplace.
Here is an example where a policy that is correct on its merits can also tangibly benefit a larger society (though it would be easy to argue that very act of approving these marriages already benefits society). But perhaps this economic boost may be what prevents California voters from approving a measure to outlaw the marriages again. Whatever it takes, in my view. And if this act by the judicial branch provokes some engagement between the different sides on the issue, it will have well been worth it.