WILLEMSTAD - The Christian Pastors Association of Curaçao has expressed deep concerns regarding the recent decision by the Supreme Court of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to uphold the ruling on same-sex marriage from December 6, 2022. In a letter addressed to the government, the association highlighted that the recognition of homosexual relationships in the Civil Code has been interpreted as deserving of legal force and the symbolic status of marriage.
According to the association, this legal recognition raises significant concerns within the Curaçaoan community. They argue that homosexual behavior is perceived as unnatural and contrary to societal values, with potential harmful implications for individuals and the community as a whole. The letter indicates that there have already been repercussions in workplaces for public officials and employees in commerce, and they anticipate further consequences in education and broader community dynamics.
A central point raised by the association is the government's responsibility to protect the community from what they describe as undesirable homosexual behavior. They argue that recent court rulings have normalized this behavior, despite it being viewed as harmful by many in the population. The association calls for clarity on how the government plans to address these issues, especially given that the Court itself acknowledged its limitations in justifying same-sex marriage through international treaties, specifically noting that the Netherlands is not obligated to recognize such unions.
The letter critiques the Court's comparison of heterosexual and homosexual relationships, arguing that equating the two distorts the principle of equality. They contend that a more fitting comparison would be between monogamous heterosexual marriage and polygamous heterosexual marriage, which historically has been more common.
The association emphasizes that the primary role of any government is to safeguard citizens from harmful influences. They highlight the importance of traditional family structures, arguing that children thrive best in environments with both a mother and a father. The letter cites Article 26 of Curaçao's State Arrangement, which states that "the family is protected by the government," urging lawmakers to prioritize the well-being of families and the integrity of traditional values.
The Christian Pastors Association is making a fervent appeal to parliamentarians, ministers, and political parties to safeguard parental authority and protect the community from the advancing normalization of homosexuality. They argue that the interests of a healthy community, built on strong family foundations, should outweigh those of same-sex relationships, calling for a reaffirmation of traditional family values within Curaçao's legal framework.