Marriage is a right, should not be voted on

I disagree with Ron Telecky's opinion that Iowans should vote on the marriage issue (Jan. 25 guest column).

Our system of government lets us vote on a lot of things, but not on the rights of minorities. That's why they're called rights. Rights are basic to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness and cannot be taken away by majority vote.

All people, including gay people, have the right to love and companionship. It is basic to the pursuit of happiness. They should be able to live their lives as they want, and if they wish to marry someone, it doesn't affect me or my marriage. There are enough marriage licenses for everyone.

I don't understand how anyone could be so mean as to want to take away someone else's marriage. Mr. Telecky, why can't you just live and let live?

Jay Portas

Cedar Rapid