Why is a constitutional amendment necessary to protect marriage in South Carolina? This is the premier question on people’s minds as we approach the General Election on Nov. 7. I am amazed at the number of people I talk to who are still unaware that this issue will be on the ballot. Let me urge you to bring up this topic in conversation at work, at church and among your friends.

Marriage between one man and one woman has been the standard that God set when he created Eve to be Adam’s helpmate at the dawn of time. It is a union of two different sexes, not just a union of two different people. The institution of marriage is central to the welfare of all society, and it must not be redefined. If same-sex marriage is allowed, the door will then be open to legalize bigamy, polygamy, and incest.

Marriage works best when God is recognized as the bedrock of the relationship. Acknowledging biblical principles such as commitment, respect and selfless love affect any relationship, but they become the cement that keeps the foundation of the family intact. When a man and woman are committed to each other and to their children, society is enriched because every adult is working toward a common good. Unfortunately, some adults choose to ignore these principles and indulge in self-gratification. This moral breakdown leads to adultery, pedophilia, and same-sex relationships.

Same-sex proponents want us to believe that a marriage amendment is discriminatory. They say it violates equal protection under the law. They say it makes them second-class citizens and denies them rights accorded to every other South Carolinian. They assert that domestic violence laws will fail to include same-sex couples. None of this is true. Men and women have the legal right to marry one person of the opposite sex. No gender is given exception under the law. No race is excluded or deemed superior. Likewise, no particular lifestyle choice is given any acknowledgment in legal matters. We do not recognize or adhere to any type of class system so that no individual is elevated or lowered in our society.

Just as no citizen is second class, no citizen is regarded in a different manner when domestic violence or criminal violence is involved. In fact, South Carolina established the first victim-assistance program in the nation. Our state offers information and support to victims and their families, and there is no distinction between men, women, boys or girls when talking about victims.

Our office has mailed information to all our churches about the marriage amendment and the need for everyone to vote yes in a few weeks. We have sent tens of thousands of informative cards and more than 10,000 “Marriage YES” bumper stickers to churches and individuals. Please help us spread the word: Vote yes to marriage on Nov. 7.