News (USA)

Iowa teen gives impassioned speech in support of his gay parents

Iowa teen gives impassioned speech in support of his gay parents

DES MOINES — On Monday evening, Zach Wahls, a 19-year-old University of Iowa student spoke about the strength of his family during a public forum on House Joint Resolution 6, an amendment that seeks to repeal the state’s marriage equality law, and deny any form of legal recognition for gay couples.

“Over the next 2 hours, I’m sure we’re going to hear plenty of testimony about how damaging having gay parents is on kids, but in my 19 years, not once have I ever been confronted by an individual who realized independently that I was raised by a gay couple,” said Wahls, who has two mothers.

“And you know why,” he asked. “Because the sexual orientation of my parents has had zero effect on the content of my character.”

Watch here:

Earlier today, the Iowa state House passed the amendment, House Joint Resolution 6, by a vote of 62-37.

The measure seeks to prohibit not only same-sex marriage, but also civil unions and domestic partnerships.

Don't forget to share:

Support vital LGBTQ+ journalism

Reader contributions help keep LGBTQ Nation free, so that queer people get the news they need, with stories that mainstream media often leaves out. Can you contribute today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated

Iowa House passes amendment in hopes voters will repeal same-sex marriage law

Previous article

Portuguese model pleads ‘not guilty’ in brutal slaying of companion

Next article