Cream in the cofffee...

There is a "puzzling," if not "disturbing" story out of South Louisiana today that I want to highlight.

It seems that a Justice of The Peace in Hammond, LA has refused to marry an interracial couple. Now, this is puzzling to me, because Louisiana (especially South Louisiana) has always been one of the most racially mixed areas of the country when it comes to family makeup.

The Mulatto population in Louisiana has been large for centuries. The Redbone/Creole/Coonass/Negro mix is widespread throughout the State. Even before the days of the Civil Rights Movement, Louisianans pretty well accepted interracial marriage. Oh sure, it wasn't all peachy for interracial couples/families, but it was "common."

The justification by this JP stumps me, also. Let's look at it:

Keith Bardwell, justice of the peace in Tangipahoa Parish, says it is his experience that most interracial marriages do not last long.

Earth to Keith...Earth to Keith! MOST marriages do not last long, PERIOD!!!...Red, Yeller, Black, & White! Check your divorce rate down there in Tangipahoa Parish.

Bardwell is quick to deny the "racist" label.

"I do ceremonies for black couples right here in my house," Bardwell said. "My main concern is for the children."

Bardwell said he has discussed the topic with blacks and whites, along with witnessing some interracial marriages. He came to the conclusion that most of black society does not readily accept offspring of such relationships, and neither does white society, he said.

"I don't do interracial marriages because I don't want to put children in a situation they didn't bring on themselves," Bardwell said. "In my heart, I feel the children will later suffer."

Listen Hoss, and listen closely. In this day and age when it seems that more children are born to unwed Mommas, with not a Daddy in sight...I'd take my chances of a little social "snub" (if that stigma really still does exist) for any child with parents willing to make the legal commitment.

Now, a lot of y'all that read this little blog know that I have some "non-traditional" views on legal marriage, and the need for it. That being said...if folks feel the need to make a legal deal out of it...well, FINE! GOOD ON 'EM!

I believe the attitude of this JP is at best "misguided." I can't judge the man's heart. But I can judge his actions. And I judge them to be Double Ignurnt!!!