Law professors and legal scholars from around the world came to BYU to discuss one of today’s hottest legal issues. The question addressed: “Should legalization of same-sex marriage be constitutionally required?”
The same-sex marriage symposium featured speakers from law schools in New York, Florida, Ohio, Washington D.C., Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. Current and former BYU law professors spoke, as well as legal scholars from as far away as Australia, Spain, and Argentina. Speakers touched on topics such as same-sex marriage bans, gender differentiate parenting, natural law, and equality, all under the umbrellas of both practice and theory. Proposition 8 was discussed alongside other milestone court cases that have brought this question center stage.
The symposium created a comfortable atmosphere where students and scholars could come together to amicably exchange ideas and opinions. Speakers delivered presentations and fielded questions from the audience. Three separate panels explored different aspects of the same-sex marriage question and equality in both practice and theory. Discussion was held regarding whether the U.S. Constitution holds an inclusive or exclusive stance on legally recognizing same-sex marriages, or whether such decisions should be left within the walls of the home.
“Overall, I thought this was a great program and a good area to funnel productive and civil discussion on this important and controversial topic,” said Brooke Robinson (2L) representing the Journal of Public Law. “I was impressed with the overall respect and consideration of the facilitators, attorney, panelists, and students in attendance.”
Professor Lynn D. Wardle, Bruce C. Hafen Professor of Law and Family law expert at the BYU Law School, helped facilitate the symposium. It was co-sponsored by initiative groups from several law schools including the BYU Law’s Journal of Public Law and Marriage and Family Law Research Project.
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Posted:November 15, 2012
