In response to the recent coverage of gay marriage and transgender rights and the hearings in Annapolis, I am quite upset to think our elected officials are confusing the roles of the church and state. The Constitution requires civil liberties for all.

Allowing the church to define the rules based on religion is not upholding the Constitution. This requires our government to keep church and state separate and to recognize the rights of all regardless of race, color, sex and religion.

Discrimination against any individual under the Constitution is a violation of our rights. Most of the arguments being used in Annapolis reflect prejudice. It's time we stop the fear and hatred and accept one another. That's what the Bible teaches.

Ellen Pinto