Many times on this blog we've discussed the power of words and communications. Be they motivational or demeaning, our words and messages continue to hold the greatest potential and threat for the LGBT community.
The other day our friends at Queerty,com blogged on a definitive refinement to an ancient word, marriage. Merriam-Webster lexicographers have added "the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage" to its definition of marriage.
Reflecting today's frequent use of the word in this context, Merriam-Webster associate editor Kory Stampe said, "In recent years, this new sense of 'marriage' has appeared frequently and consistently throughout a broad spectrum of carefully edited publications, and is often used in phrases such as 'same-sex marriage' and 'gay marriage' by proponents and opponents alike. Its inclusion was a simple matter of providing our readers with accurate information about all of the word's current uses."
While obviously arousing strong commentary from conservative audiences, the change also has received mixed reactions from gay and lesbian audiences, some of whom are currently awaiting a decision from California's supreme court on the very issue of their marriage being a legally-recognized reality or meaningless label.
I personally found this news, despite current LGBT challenges throughout the country, to be a positive step for the community. In its most basic sense, the dialogues and messages we are sharing with each other and the world are noticed. Not only are they noticed, but they also are bringing about greater understanding of our community and the concept of love.
To me, the definition of words is the most basic foundation of our culture's understanding. And now, people of all ages, races and beliefs will find our message about love and marraige whenever they look up the word. What are your thoughts on our dictionary's recent addition? We'd love to hear them in the comments below.
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I agree with you-I think it’s a step forward for the LGBT community and the world in general. Although many people probably won’t notice the change, it’s nice to know that gay marriage is getting recognition somewhere.