The South Dakota Catholic Conference opposes the passage of Senate Bill 166, legislation which would alter South Dakota criminal law to recognize “sexual orientation,” “gender identity,” and “Two-Spirit” as statutory categories. Senate Bill 166 does not propose to define this terminology. The Church abhors harm done to any person through word and deed. All persons, based on their innate dignity as children of God, equally have a right to security and to be protected from harm. Current law provides that protection. Civil authorities have the duty to assist in assuring safe environments and through its criminal justice system impose punishments proportionate to offenses. At the same time, there can be no true promotion of man and woman’s dignity unless the essential order of their creation by God is respected.
Categories: 2021 Session
