Religious Politics in Texas
What in hell is going on in Texas?
Although in 2003 the Supreme Court (Lawrence v. Texas) finally struck down the criminal prohibition of homosexual sodomy nationwide, Texas is still the laughingstock of the nation when it comes to meddling in the private affairs of others. Still on the books is the Texas obscenity statute, which proclaims that a “personal massager” shall not look like a penis (no anatomical details allowed) and that an “educational model” (that can look as penis-like as you care to make it) shall not vibrate. Furthermore, if you own five dildos, that’s OK because you’re a hobbyist, but if you have six, you’re a criminal with “intent to distribute.”
This clip from the 2002 documentary Dildo Diaries covers this funny-if-it-weren’t-true shaggy dog story.
Most recently, Warren Chisum (R, Texas) the aforementioned “Bible-thumping dwarf” (in the words of Molly Ivins) circulated a memo attacking evolution and referring to a geocentrist web site FixedEarth.com. Although he has since apologized for not noticing that the web site also espouses racial hatred, I doubt he’s done much to enlighten himself in other areas.
Texas, is this really business-as-usual?
February 25th, 2007 at 1:48 pm
You better believe it!!! This is so true. Back-water, Bible thumping, conservative, dogmatic, uneducated, close minded, prudish, intimidated by personal sexuality, and flat out unreasonable are just a few of the things that come to mind when trying to describe a large portion of the Texan mentality, be it on a personal, social, or business level.
I recently went to one of the “Adult Video” stores here. When I called to ask about what sort of products they had available the only response I was given was, “Oh, we carry a full line.” Okay, not sure what a full line is, especially considering it was my first time in this sort of establishment. But, I took my chances and found a great deal of gratifying educational devices (LOL).
My two teenagers were a bit forlorn as they were denied access to the business (as there are both under 18 years of age). But, I promised them both I’d do my best to find something they’d enjoy in the way of Valentine’s Day gifts. I haven’t seen these absolute looks of pure adoration from either of my children in a number of years. I guess education is the key.