Week of Momentous Supreme Court Decisions

Re “Bans on Gay Sex Ruled Unconstitutional,” June 27: Fortunately, the Supreme Court has upheld the right for two consenting adults to do whatever they wish in the privacy of their domicile. It is like living in the dark ages to think that these issues are still fought over in the courts. Two consenting adults should have the right to marry, have families and have all the legal protections that are part and parcel of these relationships. What kind of morality would deny these rights to anyone in a country that professes equal protection under the law?

We’ve a long way to go, and I am glad to see the court on a path that reflects the rights of individuals and protects privacy and personal choice.

Betty Seidmon

Los Angeles

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Critics of the court’s decision on sodomy laws bemoan the fate of morality and decency. The Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights don’t mention morality or decency. They speak of liberty, rights and the pursuit of happiness. Antonin Scalia, a possible candidate for chief justice, speaks of the “culture war.” Those of us who think that sex is a wonderful thing and that gay people are people are not at war. We are citizens who believe in liberty, rights and the pursuit of happiness.

David Greene

Torrance

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In the aftermath of this week’s momentous Supreme Court decisions, I find myself reassessing the legacy of Ronald Reagan. On June 23, I rejoiced in Sandra Day O’Connor’s just and wise conclusion that in regard to affirmative action, diversity is indeed a compelling state interest; three days later, I wept with emotion as I read Anthony Kennedy’s splendid and moving decision in Lawrence and Garner vs. Texas.

With his selections of Kennedy and O’Connor, Reagan is proving in hindsight to have been a far wiser president than this bleeding-heart liberal ever imagined. To have two such splendid opinions written by two of Reagan’s appointees fills me with great joy, and it should comfort my fellow progressives as they contemplate future vacancies on the Supreme Court. It is my slightly subversive hope that Reagan’s legacy will be forever entwined with these decisions. Hurrah for the Gipper!

Hugo Schwyzer

Pasadena

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Re “California Molestation Law Struck Down,” June 27: And people wonder what’s wrong with the youth of America. First their fathers, coaches and religious leaders rape them and then so does the Supreme Court of the United States. But then, whoever said life’s fair?

Mary Ferrell

Lakewood