The New York Times has decided that Mormons tipped the balance in favor of Proposition 8. The Economist has (lamely) proclaimed that the Mormon work ethic has insulated Utah from the economic storm. What should we, proponents of equal marriage rights, do to counter the homophobic economic engine running in the mountains? Organize, march, sue, convince. Make a ton of money.
Economists argue that bias is irrational -- not a great way to make money. A company that makes hiring decisions for reasons other than competence and talent is going to be punished by competitors who take advantage of that talent for their own gain. Now, proponents of same-sex marriage have an opportunity to punish states that deny marriage rights, and reward those that do. Move to Connecticut and Massachusetts! Revel in our New English autumns. Bring your entrepreneurial spirits and wallets. Fill state coffers with income and sales tax receipts. At least vacation here!
Of course this will happen on its own, as same-sex couples come to live in a place that will recognize their unions. And a mass exodus from California would cripple efforts to turn this year’s Proposition 8 near-loss into next year’s victory. However, as we we attend political rallies and speeches, we can and should make decisions about where to live and work and what we buy with an eye towards punishing bias.
In response to pro-gay marriage boycotts in California -- some more sensible than others -- Prop 8 supporters have called the efforts "intolerable," and "mob justice." I don't understand this. The free market’s definitional quality is right there in the title -- it’s free! If I’m free to make a purchasing decision based on something as insubstantial and unrelated to underlying quality as a celebrity endorsement or witty advertising campaign, then I am damned well free to make a purchasing decision based on whether my money's going to keep my friends from getting married.
Respond to fear-mongering and bias by moving to (or vacationing in) Connecticut and Massachusetts. Earn a ton of money. Spend it on businesses that support equal rights. Make the Economist write an article marveling at the economic benefits of justice.
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