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2000 - A Year in Review: Addressing Social Issues
In January, Adventist Church leaders in California affirmed the traditional view of marriage as being between a man and a woman and called on others to support legislation that so define marriage. This came in response to a legislative initiative called Proposition 22, in which Californians were asked to approve or reject a constitutional amendment on the ballot that said, "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." In the Netherlands, church leaders expressed concern over the homosexual marriage bill passed in the Dutch parliament's lower house in September.

More than 150 health professionals, educators and government employees from around the world met in Cape Town, South Africa in February, calling for a renewed commitment to a drug-free future. Thomas Neslund, Adventist health spokesperson, spoke of the importance of raising awareness of tobacco and alcohol as "gateway drugs" to other drug use. In May, Adventist members and leaders in Vermont expressed grave disappointment at the governor's signing of the bill that gives gays and lesbians entering into so-called civil unions the same rights and recognition as married couples.

During the church's World Session in Toronto, Canada in July, the church issued an official statement regarding "games of chance," calling gambling "incompatible with Christian principles" and a social danger that "erodes the quality of life."

The Dutch decision to legalize euthanasia in December attracted widespread protest. Speaking on behalf of the world church, Dr. Allan Handysides, said that lawmakers in the Netherlands have crossed a dangerous threshold
Source:...ANN Silver Spring, Maryland, USA -- Entered January 6, 2001

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