Druid Hills Golf Club,in the heart of Atlanta, GA, nestled between Emory University and downtown, is about to make the big time. The national press has begun it's coverage of the battle between the premier Atlanta golf club and gay rights activists. The club, it seems, has resisted a city order to allow spousal benefits to its gay members.

Here's the way the case seems to break down: The State of Georgia has a ban against same-sex marriages. At the same time, the City of Atlanta "prohibits businesses and other groups dealing with the public from discriminating against gays or their partners." Meanwhile, the club has a benefit policy that allows the spouses of it's married members to play the course unaccompanied for up to six months after the members death. It seems the club is refusing to extend this benefit to partners of its gays members. The club also does not offer this benefit to it's non-married heterosexual couples.

I've played this course in the past and it is certainly one of the nicest I've ever played. Well maicured greens, extremely knowledgable - if not arrogant - caddies. The clubhouse also has fantastic french fries (Heinz ketchup of course) and a well stocked bar. One of my oldest friends (heterosexual, I assure you) is even a member. Nevertheless, I personally always felt the club to be a bit snobby and waspish for my taste. But all the same, I think the club has a good point.

If the state does not permit gay marriages, than these couples are not married. They are just like any other non-married couple and should be treated as such. Why should non-married homosexual couples be entitled to anything other than the exact same rights as non-married heterosexual couples?

My first prediction is that the club will win this case in a State Court ruling. My next prediction is that these rights activists will use their public relations machine to smear the reputation of this club even if the club is found to have done nothing wrong. How common in this day and age, and yet still a shame.

posted by Avi G @ 22:11