Tim Spangler [letter April 2] is a perfect example of an American who doesn't support American principles. He suggests those who don't adhere to the Bible as absolute while declaring civil rights absolute are hypocrites. Mr. Spangler, and all Americans like him, are the true hypocrites.

No one, including Rick Hodgson [letter March 22], is suggesting Mr. Spangler should not be allowed to disagree with gay marriage. It's just that no one, including Mr. Spangler, should be allowed to legislate against marriage equality based on a belief in a particular mythology. Last time I checked, while you're free in America to believe any fantasy you wish, you're not free to restrict the civil rights of others based on it.

Religious freedom in America is first of all, freedom for all religions, not just Christians, and second, not applicable in the allocation of civil rights. This is not a church, this is a country. We cannot allow ourselves to be governed by mythology over truth, reason, fairness and equality.

Once gay people are granted our equal civil rights, I personally grant Mr. Spangler and all others permission to denounce us all they like.

Chris Jarvis

Fresno