Arlington Catholic Bishop Urges Virginians to Vote No on Question 2

Arlington Bishop Michael Burbidge has called on Virginians to vote against a state constitutional amendment, Question 2, which would enshrine marriage rights for same-sex couples. Burbidge, who leads the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, expressed his position in a video shared by Catholics Vote No on its website and the diocese’s YouTube channel. He emphasized that the amendment would contradict the teachings of Jesus, who defined marriage as between one man and one woman. Burbidge also criticized the proposal for promoting what he described as a false separation between sex and gender, asserting that individuals are created in the image and likeness of God.

The bishop further urged Virginians to vote no on Question 1, which would enshrine reproductive rights in the state constitution. His stance aligns with broader Catholic teachings on marriage and human dignity, which emphasize the importance of traditional family structures and the sanctity of life from conception to natural death. The diocese’s public statements reflect a commitment to these principles, framing the proposed amendments as threats to moral and social order.

Equality Virginia and the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia are among the groups supporting Virginians for Marriage Equality, a campaign advocating for the passage of Question 2. The campaign has garnered support from various advocates, including former Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, who has opposed both marriage equality and reproductive rights protections in the state constitution. These groups argue that the amendments would expand civil rights and ensure equal protection under the law for all citizens.

In addition to the marriage equality campaign, Virginia advocacy groups have launched the “Right 2 Play VA” initiative, urging the Virginia High School League to allow transgender girls to compete on girls’ sports teams. Equality Arlington, along with the Arlington Gender Identity Alliance, Equality Virginia, and the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia, have joined this effort. The campaign seeks to reverse a 2025 policy that barred transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports, a decision that aligns with President Donald Trump’s executive order targeting transgender athletes.

The Virginia High School League’s 2025 policy marked a reversal from its previous stance, which had supported transgender and nonbinary athletes. This shift came amid broader political and social debates over gender identity in sports, with critics arguing that the policy undermines the rights of all students. The “Right 2 Play VA” campaign aims to restore a policy that had allowed transgender girls to compete for over a decade without incident, as noted by campaign representatives.

The ongoing debates in Virginia reflect broader national conversations about marriage, reproductive rights, and gender identity. These issues intersect with religious, ethical, and legal considerations, shaping public discourse and policy decisions. As the state prepares for the November election, the outcomes of these referendums will have significant implications for the rights and protections of Virginians.

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