New York Governor David Patterson on gay marriage as a civil rights issue

Although some black leaders don't like the comparison, Gov. Patterson believes that gay people face a civil rights battle comparable to what black Americans faced. "I've wanted to be someone in the African-American community who recognizes the new civil rights struggle that is being undertaken by gay and lesbian and transgendered people," he said.
David Patterson has a long history of supporting same-sex marriage and a genuine comfort level with the gay community. As a youngster, he and his brother would stay with family friends, Uncle Stanley and Uncle Ronald in Harlem when their parents went out of town. A gay couple, Patterson said his uncles helped him with his spelling, read to him and played cards with him.
"I was raised in a culture that understood the different ways that people conduct their lives. And I feel very proud of it."
"All the time when I'd hear Uncle Stanley and Uncle Ronald and my parents talk, they were talking about the civil rights struggle. In those days, I knew I wanted to grow up and feel that I could change something."
Gov. Patterson is correct in fighting for the civil rights of gay people. Gay marriage has nothing to do with government or religion. It is an inherent civil right, and I applaud Gov. Patterson for his fearless stand.