Resolution on The Natural Family: A Vision for (name of city)

Whereas, the natural family is the fundamental unit of society and is entitled to protection in Utah by local and state governments; and

Whereas, the natural family is the locus of the true common good and that citizens of (name of city) help ourselves when we help our families; and

Whereas, the natural family results in healthier, happier, more productive, and more civically-engaged adults as well as healthier, happier, safer, and better educated children; and

Whereas, most serious public pathologies -- including crime, delinquency, illegal drug use, domestic violence, long-term poverty, and low educational achievement -- are closely associated with family breakdown and disorder; then,

Be it resolved, that (name of city), Utah, adopts the following vision as a guide to policy formation and public action:

We envision a local culture that upholds the marriage of a woman to a man, and a man to a woman, as ordained of God. This culture affirms marriage as the best path to health, security, fulfillment, and joy. It casts the home built on marriage as the source of true political sovereignty and ordered liberty. It also holds the household framed by marriage to be the primary economic unit, a place marked by rich activity, material abundance, and broad self-reliance. This culture treasures private property in family hands as the rampart of independence and liberty. It celebrates the marital sexual union as the unique source of new human life. We see our homes as open to a full quiver of children, the source of family continuity and social growth. We envision young women growing into wives, homemakers, and mothers; and we see young men growing into husbands, home-builders, and fathers.

We see true happiness as the product of persons enmeshed in vital bonds with spouses, children, parents, and extended family. We look to a landscape of family homes, lawns, and gardens busy with useful tasks and ringing with the laughter of many children. We envision parents as the first educators of their children. We see homes that also embrace extended family members who need special care due to age or infirmity. We view local neighborhoods and communities as the second locus of political sovereignty.

We envision a freedom of commerce that respects and serves family integrity. And we look to local government that holds the protection of the natural family to be their first responsibility.

This story appeared in North County on page A14.