Tuesday’s elections were not only about electing senators and presidents. Many states’ ballots also included questions on constitutional amendments (known as ballot measures) on subjects from marijuana legalization to stem cell research. Gay marriage, on the ballot in 11 states, was the biggest such issue facing voters on Tuesday.

Millions of Americans in those 11 states voted in favour of constitutional amendments banning same-sex marriages.

The states of Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Ohio, and Utah all showed a decisive majority in favour of the amendments. In Oregon, where the battle was the toughest-with $3 million spent bolstering gay activist campaigns-the outcome was made clear with a 56 per cent majority in favour of the amendment.

The state constitutional amendments drew fire from gay activists north of the border.

“What happened in those states is a slap in the face for democracy,” said Shaun Chen, Student Governor for Part Time Students and a member of Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender of U of T (LGBTOUT). “For example, in the state of Ohio, they not only want to ban same-sex marriages but they’re also against same-sex civil unions. This clearly shows that this is not about preserving traditional marriage institutions but it’s about direct discrimination against same-sex couples.

“As a Canadian, I feel fortunate that we have the Charter of Rights and Freedoms that can protect our human rights as citizens. I think that America should have a similar charter especially now.”

Suzy Yim, Vice President External of LGBTOUT, said that Bush’s re-election goes hand-in-hand with the events that unfolded in the 11 states.

“With Kerry losing by so few votes, it is clear that the United States is equally divided on numerous issues including Iraq, the economy, environmental issues, etc. Same-sex marriages is just one of those issues.

“Just as one side feels that same-sex marriage should be banned, the other side disagrees. We all know Bush’s religious background and his rejection of gay people, and I don’t think it’s fair for one man to dictate to the half that doesn’t support him how they should feel about the issue.”

Yim added: “I think that democracy disappears when presidents base their national policies on the basis of religion.”