Keith Bardwell, Louisiana Justice of the Peace, Refuses to Issue Marriage License for Interracial Couple

Says "He's Concerned for the Children" the Union May Produce

Janet Shan
Keith Bardwell, a justice of the peace in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, refused to issue a marriage license to Beth Humphrey and Terence McKay, an interracial couple, out of concern for any children the couple might have. He also said it has been his experience that most interracial marriages do not last long. He told the Daily Star of Hammond that he was not a racist. Really? How is it anyone's business who a man or woman chooses to marry? He said, "I do ceremonies for black couples right here in my house." "My main concern is for the children." Right. This is a throwback to a dark period in America's history that we would all like to forget, but this idiot certainly brought it back to the surface.

Bardwell said he has discussed the topic with blacks and whites, along with witnessing some interracial marriages. He came to the conclusion that most of black society does not readily accept offspring of such relationships, and neither does white society, he said.

"I don't do interracial marriages because I don't want to put children in a situation they didn't bring on themselves," Bardwell said. "In my heart, I feel the children will later suffer." If he does an interracial marriage for one couple, he must do the same for all, he said. "I try to treat everyone equally," he said. Source: Breitbart

Humphrey told the newspaper she called Bardwell on Oct. 6 to inquire about getting a marriage license signed. She says Bardwell's wife told her that Bardwell will not sign marriage licenses for interracial couples. "It is really astonishing and disappointing to see this come up in 2009," said American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana attorney Katie Schwartzman. "The Supreme Court ruled as far back as 1963 that the government cannot tell people who they can and cannot marry."

He should be removed from his position as justice of the peace. There is no room for such bigotry and hatred. His job does not entail playing judge and jury on whether an interracial marriage will last. In case Mr. Bardwell hasn't noticed, we live in a society where you can marry someone from another race.

Published by Janet Shan

A freelancer writer who is currently working on her first novel, a mystery set in the hills of Montego Bay, Jamaica. Visit: blackpoliticalthought.blogspot.com.  View profile

4 Comments

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  • James Tillman10/16/2009

    this news was a surprise but unfortunately a reminder of how some parts of society view this particular issue

  • Indiana Male10/16/2009

    After growing up and seeing what he is talking about, I strongly agree with his opinion. Marriages don't last like they used to. We don't need to add any more stress. I am glad you are standing up for your opinion.

  • Kristy10/16/2009

    Where can we get this asswipe's email address?

  • Louisiana citizen (white male)10/16/2009


    Mr. Bardwell, what planet are you on? I am a citizen of Louisiana and I am ashamed of you !! Have you noticed our President? he is of mixed races... obviously accepted .... you are entitled to your own opinions I guess no matter how stupid you sound !!! I am a white man from Louisiana and I strongly disagree with your actions and views on this matter. Its your mentallity that holds us back as a nation and always has been a problem. GO AWAY AND TAKER YOUR RACIST BELIEFS AND LIES WITH YOU WE DO NOT WANT YOUR KIND HERE ANYMORE !!!!

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