Disappointed with SB 916

State Sen. Wallingford:Having spent my 25 years as a Missourian, I must express my disappointment over the introduction of SB 916. While you may not represent my district, you represent the state I call home. I support everyone's right to practice religion. I have never witnessed someone of faith in this state be subjected to poor treatment; I would argue the only group subjected to unfair treatment are those practicing the Muslim faith in a post-9/11 world. To claim that Missouri needs this bill to protect the right to practice religion is false.

Religion does not afford to anyone the right to discriminate; no matter how you paint it, the denial of services based on a person's sexual orientation is discrimination. I support your right to discriminate in private; but it's unacceptable when you, an elected official, attempt to rally support by invoking the fear that the freedom to practice religion is in danger.

As a gay Missourian I believe I deserve to marry the man I love; I deserve protections that prevent my employer from terminating my employment; and I deserve protections that prevent my eviction from my residence. These are issues that are in need of legislation in order to protect.

I vote. I pay taxes. I am in every way equal to every other Missourian; my beliefs deserve equal attention. Serving the people of Missouri is an honor; you should seek to better the lives of all Missourians, even those who do not meet your religious convictions.

CHRISTOPHER KEENAN, Springfield, Mo.