Rhode Island Governor speaks against gay marriage

Outgoing Rhode Island Governor Donald Carcieri has agreed to meet in early November with a group of gay and lesbian activists, but proceeded to speak out against gay marriage at a fundraiser for a Massachusetts group opposed to gay and lesbian rights.

Carcieri told the group that marriage is “not a civil right.”

Last month, gay rights group Queer Action Rhode Island asked the Republican governor to cancel a scheduled appearance before the anti-gay group Massachusetts Family Institute (MFI) at its 18th Annual Fundraising Banquet.

“We find it appalling that you, the governor to all people of [Rhode Island], would support the fundraising efforts of an organization that advocates against the lives of some R.I. citizens,” the group said in a letter addressed to the governor. “By making this fundraising speech, the negative message you will send to Rhode Island's gay community – especially its younger members – is extremely harmful.”

The MFI objects to any pro-gay legislation – not just granting gay couples the right to marry – including a transgender anti-discrimination bill currently being debated by Massachusetts lawmakers. The group dubbed the bill the “bathroom bill,” and called on lawmakers to “flush down the toilet” the bill that adds gender identity to the list of protected classes. They argue that the bill would invite sexual predators into bathrooms, putting women and children in peril.

“DON'T WAIT UNTIL A WOMAN OR CHILD IS ASSAULTED!,” the group says on their website. “Tell your state representative to OPPOSE the Transgender Bill.”

The governor refused to cancel his appearance, insisting he had a right to his personal opinion.