I can't believe that in this day and age there is actually a ballot measure solely geared to banning gay marriage. And it seems that a lot of the focus of the campaign geared to pass the ballot initiative is aimed at parents, grandparents and prospective parents.

It's a nearly universally accepted fact that one's sexual orientation is not something that is learned. It is an inherited trait, like having a gift for numbers or an operatic singing voice, or freckles or blue eyes.

Do you parents and future parents realize that there is quite a likely possibility (somewhere around 15 percent) that you could raise a child who will grow up to be a gay adult?

It is just a matter of pure chance. It's not something to worry about or fret about. And no matter what, your child's sexual orientation is not something that you can change.

What you can change is that child's ability to marry if he or she were so inclined.

Why push these restrictions and barriers on generations to come?

Proposition 8 really just stands for hate. It has no fiscal, political or environmental impact. This is about fairness.

Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and equally, especially generations to come. It is hard enough growing up gay.

Let's allow the gay community this simple accommodation. It only makes sense.

This is, after all, California, and we are proudly one of the most forward-thinking states in the country.

Let's prove that we can rally together to defeat this cruel and dysfunctional ballot initiative. Matthew Pentland Simi Valley