Segments
This week, America witnessed a monumental change of heart – for the first time in history a sitting President spoke publicly in support of marriage equality. What does it mean to have a change of heart – and go public about that change – even if many around you might disagree with your new belief? Tune in this weekend to Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast State of Belief to hear Sarah Posner’s analysis on the electoral impact of President Obama’s announcement; Jay Michaelson on the religious context of the historic event; and Louis J. Marinelli about what caused his own Change of Heart on gay marriage.
Electoral Implications of a Change of Heart
When the President spoke out in support of marriage equality this week, it seemed that everyone – on both sides of the debate – had a press release ready to go and they all hit “send” at the same time. Each had its own theory about what this meant for President Obama at the polls in November. Who’s right? Joining us this week to analyze that is our friend Sarah Posner, senior editor at Religion Dispatches. Sarah has a deep understanding of the power and politics of the religious right, and has written excellent articles about this week’s events for both Religion Dispatches and Salon. Click here for the extended interview, video and transcript.
Religious Context for a Change of Heart
The President this week cited his faith as a key factor in his evolution to supporting same-sex marriage. On State of Belief this week is Jay Michaelson, associate editor at Religion Dispatches and founder of Nehirim: GLBT Jewish Culture & Spirituality, to share his thoughts on the religious aspects of this historic event. Jay is the author of God vs. Gay?: The Religious Case for Equality as well as one of the most articulate responses to President Obama’s endorsement of gay marriage.
A Life-changing Change of Heart
Last year, Welton talked to Louis J. Marinelli, once a rising start in the so-called National Organization for Marriage, effectively helping to lead the fight against marriage equality. Then he had a change of heart and walked away. Louis joins us this week to talk about his new book: A Change of Heart: Working for the National Organization of Marriage Led me to Support Marriage Equality. A portion of the proceeds from the book will be donated to Marriage Equality USA.
