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NAACP Calls For Blacks To Support Same-Sex Marriage

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The recent resolution by the NAACP in support of marriage equality in Maryland seeks to change the opinion of many in the African American community who still oppose the initiative.

The resolution, passed over the weekend, echoed support for President Obama's remarks in favor of marriage equality nearly one week ago. At a press conference today, NAACP President Ben Jealous said the organization will encourage everyone to support same sex marriage as a civil right.

"We will oppose threats to the 14th amendment's guarantee of equal right under the law in any state where that issue is raised," said Jealous.

A recent Pew poll revealed that 47 percent of white Americans favor gay marriage, while 39 percent of blacks oppose it, often on religious grounds.

Bishop Harry Jackson Sr., pastor of Hope Christian Church in Beltsville, Md, says marriage is defined by the teaching of faith, and that the NAACP is out of touch with mainstream blacks. "Their position is politically driven and without sensitivity to the people of the state," said Jackson.

Maryland's law allowing same sex marriage will take effect in January 2013, pending a refendum vote in December.

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