Proposition eight protest in Idaho Falls

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Story Published: Nov 15, 2008 at 8:02 PM MDT

Story Updated: Dec 18, 2008 at 4:00 PM MDT

By Hasti Taghi

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IDAHO FALLS - In opposition to the recent passing of California's proposition eight, which bans same-sex marriage, a group of equal rights supporters gathered in front of the Bonneville County Courthouse to spread their message of equality.

"That's what this country was founded on. Celebrating the differences of everyone and our freedoms. The pursuit of Happiness," says advocate Theron Mcgriff.

And that pursuit is something Theron Mcgriff knows all too well. Just seven years ago, he and his supporters stood outside this very courthouse rallying to gain shared custody of his children. A right that was taken away when he chose to open up about his sexuality. Now, reunited with his children, Mcgriff feels a family is made from love, not a court decision.

"This country changes one person by one person and one city by one city," says Mcgriff

"We want our kids to know that the world is very diverse. We want them to go into the world open minded, open hearted and know what's out there," says advocate Robbin Smith.

A straight supporter of equal rights, Robbin Smith was disappointed in the passing of proposition eight and came here today to show her opposition.

"Love is always better than hate," says Smith.

A sentiment shared by all those who attended today's rally.

"If gay marriage is not for you, by all means don't marry someone of the same sex. Just don't go so far as to say that others can't," says Mcgriff.

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