Free Republic

Bans on same-sex marriages inflict psychological trauma on gays and lesbians, a US study concluded. A study titled "I do, but I can't" examined nationwide research and determined that denying same-sex couples the marriage rights on par with heterosexual couples created "the mental distress of second-class citizenship." Being barred from marrying increased the risk of depression or isolation among gays, according to the findings released by the National Sexuality Resource Center. "Marriage denial creates what experts call minority stress, the psychological effects of constant discrimination that bars individuals from the legitimate means of achieving goals that are valued by the...

WHAT'S LOVE got to do with it? Bill Dalrymple, 56, and best friend Bryan Pinn, 65, have decided to take the plunge and try out the new same-sex marriage legislation with a twist -- they're straight men. "I think it's a hoot," Pinn said. The proposal came last Monday at a Toronto bar amid shock and laughter from their friends. But the two -- both of whom were previously married and both of whom are looking for a good woman to love -- insist that after the humour subsided, a real issue lies at the heart of it all. "There...