Same-sex weddings are coming out at Disneyland.
Walt Disney Co. said yesterday that gay couples can buy the company's high-end Fairy Tale Wedding package that allows them to exchange vows at Disney's theme parks and aboard its cruise ships, starting about $4,000 per wedding.
ame-sex couples have been allowed to use facilities on Disney grounds, such as banquet halls and conference rooms, for commitment ceremonies. But now, same-sex couples have access to the very public elements of the Fairy Tale Wedding plan, which includes a ceremony at one of the parks' marriage pavilions; Disney costumed characters at the reception; and a ride in a horse-drawn, glass-enclosed carriage through Disney property.
...Disney previously had limited the wedding package to couples with valid marriage licenses but changed its mind this week, following an inquiry from a gay guest in March, Disney Parks spokesman Donn Walker said. The guest was informed Tuesday that he could buy the Fairy Tale Wedding but has not yet asked to do so, Walker said. The policy also applies to Disney's overseas theme parks.
"We believe this change is consistent with Disney's longstanding policy of welcoming all guests in an inclusive environment," Walker said.
..."I think for years, Disney has reflected the values of America," said Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, which opposes same-sex unions. "Now, I think it could be argued they are trying to shape those values in a very radical way."
..."When an iconic company like the Walt Disney Company recognizes the value of treating all customers fairly, gay or straight, it reaps the benefits," said Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, which advocates for gay, lesbian and transgender individuals. Disney has a perfect score on the campaign's corporate equality index.
This seems oddly fitting. Disney is, after all, a company that markets fantasy.
But lets be clear: This is not about 'treating customers fairly.' It is about treating same-sex relationships as if they were equivalent to heterosexual relationships. By Disney's definition of 'fair', it would also make sense to extend the same fantasy to polygamists, polyamorous (multiple sex partners), and adult incestuous relationships.This is not about 'fair.' It is about moral judgment. DISNEY HAS MADE A MORAL JUDGMENT -- that homosexuality is right while apparently at the same time judging polygamy, polyamory, and incest to be wrong. It is quite hypocritical to condemn Christians for also making a moral judgment simply because we draw the line in a different place...
