The archbishop, Michael J. Sheehan, is trampling on the rights of others in his stand against a domestic-partnership law for New Mexico. This isn't about anti-Catholicism as he claims. It is about any church attempting to persuade legislators to vote against equality for a large group of citizens.

He mentions that other churches (Christian) share the same view. He doesn't mention other religions and groups that do not share the same view. Do their opinions count as much as his? Does he welcome their lobbying in the Roundhouse?

The church, any church, is not a person, not an individual, but a large organization that reflects only one part of society. Sheehan said the church proposes its stand; it doesn't impose it. Well, I think threatening sanctions for voting against its wishes is imposing its values on voters.

Sheehan says the establishment of a domestic-partnership law would take away our religious freedom — that someone could be punished by the state for observing a faith-based objection to homosexuality. Well, that is exactly what should happen, what does happen. It's called equal rights.

He believes marriage is an indispensable good at the heart of every family and society. But he doesn't believe marriage is good for gay families or gays in society. Why? Just how will gay marriage or domestic partnerships redefine marriage for everyone? I don't get it. If my partner and I get married, or sign as domestic partners, how does that change my straight neighbors' marriages?

The goal of domestic-partnership legislation (and gay marriage) is justice and the pursuit of happiness and to end second-class citizenship. Sheehan says he welcomes gay brothers and sisters with respect, compassion and sensitivity. But that is not true because he does not welcome them with equality.

Gerri G. Gosney and Jeanne Morrison live in Santa Fe, where they enjoy the scenic beauty of its wide-open spaces.