Photo of Terence McKay
This week in Tangipahoa Parish, Mr. Keith Bardell a Justice of the Peace in Hammond, Louisiana, refused to marry Mr. Terence McKay and Miss. Beth Humphrey because they are an interracial couple. According to Mr. Keith Bardell who has been a Justice of the Peace since 1976, interracial marriages are morally wrong, and he states that it is his right not to marry the couple. However, according to the Louisiana Judicial Code of Conduct, "A judge shall perform judicial duties without bias or prejudice."
Mr. Terence McKay and Miss Beth Humphrey both residents of Tangipahoa Parish were crushed and highly disappointed that based upon the color of their skin, that an official of Louisiana would deny their union in Holy matrimony. The couple was told by Mr. Bardell that 99 percent of interracial marriages ended up in divorce and that the decision not to marry them would be in their best interest and the best interest of any future children that would be born from their union.
During an interview conducted over the phone with WAFB News, Justice of the Peace Bardell stated, “"I stand by my decision, and it is my right not to marry an interracial couple. It's wrong."
After being denied by Bardwell, the couple traveled to Tickfaw, Louisiana and was married by Terri Crosby, another justice of the peace.
It is unclear that based upon grounds of blatant racial discrimination, if the newly married couple will pursue legal action against Mr. Bardell. What is clear is that a young couple deeply in love who were prepared to take their wedding vows before man and God, on a day that was supposed to be marked with joyful memories and celebration, began their special day snared in a nightmare orchestrated by an old man who believes that a couples race is the deciding factor that determines the couples marriage compatibility, and marriage longevity. What is also definitely clear is that antiquated racist attitudes that are exhibited without conscience or remorse by a Louisianan official have no place of value in America’s 21st century.
Ms. Pat Morris with the Hammond NAACP says she spoke to the organization's national headquarters in Baltimore, and is calling for Bardwell to resign. To date, Mr. Bardell’s term expires Dec 31, 2014.
As always Louisianans the Examiner.Com is interested in your opinion. Is it time for Justice of the Peace Keith Bardell to resign? Does Mr. Bardell’s attitude of denying interracial couples the opportunity to marry contradict Louisiana’s current image? Inquiring minds are eager to find out. Sound off.
Until the next time Louisianans, Good day, God Bless and Good Fishing.
Comments
I believe that as a public servant his personnel opinion means nothing as a uncle to a interracial nephew that is a very good and loveable kid that will grow up to be something special his race is not an issue.We as a country should not let race determine any decision we make I dont as a person.
It is 2009. Who would think the world is still racist at this time? Come on now. Our president is multiracial and look how successful he is.
As a black man who has been married to a white woman for 17 years, I can see how this would be upsetting to people. My wife and I do not have any kids by choice. But I am a product of an interracial couple. This man has the right of believe what he wants, this in America. He can not plug in his views when he is representing his Parish. But as a person in a government job, which he probably won’t have much longer or will be suspended. It is not against the law to have these view, you just can’t express them when you are in a position of authority. This will cost the Parish some money and due to all the publicity this man will either lose his job or resign. As he should.
Mr. Bardwell should be removed as Justice of the Peace immediately. He is sworn to uphold the law and to perform certain duties, if the required criteria to marry is met, it is not up to him what marriages will make it and it is not his job to worry about future children the couple may have. Same thing with pharmacists who do not want to fill certain prescribed medications, if you don't want to fulfill your job duties, don't do that job.
We are ALL interracial.
I agree Moani. It's mind boggling to remember that our President is the result of both a biracial and a broken marriage....
He has the right to have his views, regardless of how disgusting it is. However he read the job description when he took the job, if he was unable to fulfill his duties that he choose to take on, he shouldn't have taken the job or resigned if he already had it. It's a matter of personal responsibility and he didn't fulfill his responsibility. I hope he pays a hefty reward to the couple in the coming lawsuit.
It's funny to see people get so bent out of shape over this, when gay Americans get told everyday that they can't marry whom they please. One straight couple is denied marriage, and we all fly off the handles. Just remember the millions of gay Americans who are denied marriage everyday. I feel for this couple, but lets all have some perspective here.
As a white person who has dated a black Malawian women (and helping her when she comes to AMerica. She is tudying in Israel now), I find this absurd. We have every right to marry and to be with anyone whom we want.
It's been 42 years since Loving vs. Virginia and this guy needs to be reminded of that. Personally, this is wrong and quite honestly people should stop judging people on race.
I think if we keep putting pressure on this case, he will be fired five years early like he should be.
I am very disturbed by this act of bigatry. Mr Bardell's job is to sign, not to interject his personal beliefs.Consequently,his actions should denote the highest level of dicipline.
Does this JP have religious objections to this couple marrying? If so, can he quote scripture to support his objection? Does he object based on statistics that he has read? I'm interested in the actual basis of his objection. Surely it can't just be that he just "feels" it's wrong - can he? Thank you for your time. Nils
It's time for Mr. Bardwell not only to resign but to face a nasty federal lawsuit. He apparently lives in some sort of self-imposed social segregation, because Louisiana is filled with happy, healthy, well-adjusted mixed-raced children. He is a relic of the past, imposing his values with the power of his office, and that should be punished.
Mr. Bardell, don't listen to these malevolent idiots on the "liberal left", there are copious numbers of us supporters who proudly standly behind you....it is "morally" wrong as is much of what is occuring in our current depraved society today thanks to a degenerate who was fraudulently elected to the office of the President of the United States by ACORN, the NAACP, as well as other mendacious organizations and individuals. Stand your ground my brother, we're proud of you and don't compromise your beliefs, values, integrity, and character for ANYONE!
My husband & I have been married for almost 22 years. We are an "interracial" couple and contrary to what Mr. Bardel things it can and does work. We have three children our oldest daughter is in her last year at one of the top universities in the nation and will graduate in May. Our middle son will start his first semester of seminary in January and our youngest son started his first semester of college this August.
All of our children are hardworking God serving young adults who appreciated growing up in a multirracial family. I think it is way past time for Mr. Bardel to step down.
it's pretty amazing, as soemone from nyc, that there seems to be some empathy for Bardell's ridiculous assertion that interracial marriages are doomed to fail and biracial children are also disadvantaged. as a reflection of his own racism, this might be true. for instance, he would not marry this couple therefore they might have a harder time doing things that are legally their right.
i've always had a stereotype of southern judges stuck several decades behind the rest of the world and here is proof that this exists. if he's not summarily fired from his position as justice of the peace then there serious issues in LA. get him out, catch up with the world and let everyone marry one another without subjective opinion.
missouri confederate - nothing needs to be said about dinosaurs like you. your time has gone, just a matter of time. idiotic racist, those 'copious' amount of supporters are hiding in the shadows because you know it's wrong to judge someone by the color of their skin. wear that hood or huddle in the FOX news corner b/c soon you'll be in a sewer somewhere.
You can all put your heads in the sand, but he is right.
law was broken bob - are you a lawbreaker? you condone breaking the law or just when it suits your preferences?
Oh come on, this is a left and right thing by some people???
Wow, left, all Americans should be able to marry each other. Shouldn't even be a questions.
Right, only people who have the same color skin should be able to marry.
Come on, I know plenty of conservative types that, sure, believe this guy has a right to his stupid thinking, but still think it's stupid.
You know, i really cant wait for that "old backward ass thinking" generation to die off. Its SO time to stop looking at people and judging them because of the color of their skin is different. Everyone has issues, problems in life and color has nothing to do with it. the unfortunate thing is that is this guy Bardell has kids you can be sure that he is pushing his sick thinking on to them...enough already
I'm on about the same level with regard to spirit of the law as ACORN. It's law that I have to give preference on contracts to minority owned businesses regardless of the quality of their work. It's law that medical schools have to give preferences to minority students regardless of their talent and skill. I have seen firsthand how the quality of medical school students has declined. Law does not make something right or wrong. It's law that you can kill an unborn child.
I just find your mindset completely biggoted and racist. Who the hell do you think you are? You have a right to tell me who I can marry?
I have been part of a loving, successful interracial marriage for 5 years. My wife and I love each other to death. Even here in small-town Texas, we are accepted without question. Do we get some looks from time to time? Sure, especially by the older generation, >60 years old. But once people get to know us, even just for a few minutes, people GET IT. We were made for each other. And it shows.
Keith Barding should be removed from office and imprisoned. If you take an oath of office, you must follow the law. And anti-discrimination laws are no joke, pal. He's going to be in for a rough ride, and frankly, I think 5 years in the federal pokey will be just about right.
Seriously Bob, it's 2009, not 1945. People are people, no matter the color, and the sooner biggots like you either realize that or die off, the better for all of us.
what does ACORN have to do with this? there are many conservative scandals but the issue isn't this marriage or ACORN for you Bob. you're angry about the world changing and you're afraid that your old beliefs are fading away. well, it's true bob. sorry. the quality of medical schools has declined simply due to the fact that inferior minorities are admitted? that's the argument of a true racist.
Wow! This is amazing. No matter what race you put on paper, if you have been in America more than three generations you are probably mixed........
I am a biracial young lady who lives in Louisiana. My parents have been married for 30+ years & have had good & bad times just the same as any other couple because they are just the same.... of the "human race!" Even with all the dicrimination they have had to indure that didn't break them it only made them, all 4 of their children & all of their 9 granchildren stronger. Yes we have all been thru a lot, but that's just because of the ignorance that so strongly lives in this world. I've learned that I cannot let the views & feelings of others detour form the real meaning of life... to love you even if you hate me. I wouldn't change who I am for nothing or no1 in this world & glad my parents fell in love, not to mention how beautiful my siblings & I are, :-). And 2 u "Missouri Confederate" you show me one thing, just like your fellow KKK Confederates, u all don't even have the balls 2 let people know who u r, since what u believe is so right! Don't suffocate under that mask of ignorance!
To Leeann: You hit the nail on the head darling. I like your style and I appreciate your personal story. Keep telling it like it is.
Interracial marriage is the new gay marriage.
what does ACORN have to do with this? there are many conservative scandals but the issue isn't this marriage or ACORN for you Bob. you're angry about the world changing and you're afraid that your old beliefs are fading away. well, it's true bob. sorry. the quality of medical schools has declined simply due to the fact that inferior minorities are admitted? that's the argument of a true racist.
Whether he is right or wrong, fact remains he did not break any law! We live in America, we have free speech and the right to express how we feel right or wrong. Do we always agree or disagree with everyone or everything we see or hear? NO!
He has the right to refuse to marry anyone, no matter what his reason is or whether we agree..that is his right! But I must say he is wrong by saying that almost all interracial marriages end in divorce. One thing i do not like though is the NAACP and ACORN..terrible and racist(reverse) organizations, always stirring up trouble and sticking their noses where it does not belong! Good luck to the young couple :)
I would wager that this couple was aware of this JP's personal beliefs regarding interracial marriage and CHOSE him so that they would have opportunity to challenge his convictions. They obviously had other choices.
Mr. Bardell's decision was based on race, and that's bigotry. He should be fined for this, if not removed from his seat at Justice of the Peace.
On top of that, he's wrong. His conclusion about society's opionion and treatment of biracial children is wrong too. The majority of society, both black and white, are quite accepting of biracial kids. I know; I have two teen biracial boys who have had NO problem ever due to their mixed race, and I mean EVER. They are well-behaved, great boys, living in an ethnically diverse (although predominantly white) area. They (we) are treated with kindness and respect across the board. And, we have lived in five different states (north and south) as well as in Europe.
Enough people. You damn racist idiots need to shut up!!!
That fat JP had no right to deny the marriage,and should be removed immediately.
DON'T Y'ALL GET IT YET? WE AMERICANS ARE MIXED RACE PEOPLE AND THE SOONER STUPID ASSES LIKE BARDELL ARE PUNISHED FOR DISCRIMINATING AGAINST AMERICANS THE BETTER WE ALL WILL BE.
HAS ANYONE IN LA NOTICED THE USA HAS A MIXED RACE PRESIDENT NOW?
stories like this make me want to leave the USA for good...
All I can say is WOW. My wife is from this parish and she is always telling me how racist the area is but I just couldn't comprehend the depth of the issue until seeing this. While I don't know that jail time is appropriate this guy needs to lose his job at the very least.
PS-As a staunch Republican I can tell you this isn't a right or left issue, this is an ignorance issue. It's a situation like this when we need to look past political affiliations and address the wrong that has occurred.
To Leeann: You hit the nail on the head darling. I like your style and I appreciate your personal story. Keep telling it like it is.
Thank you Theodore...
And to Bob.. corruption is all around you, that doesn't mean that everyone around you is corrupt though does it? They have had a few people that did unlawful things in ACORN, but doesn't make the whole thing wrong & should be ended.. That is another sort of your single minded thinking. In that case we should have overturned our government cause its been corrupt from the very start.
Michael: No ACORN & the NAACP are not racist, they just realize & attack the inequality in this country. I'm sorry we can't all be blind to way people are treated because we are not part of the majority, that in truth is the new minority. We are all mixed in some way, whether or not you want to learn or except it. All I do is pray the Father forgive all who are blinded to the true meaning of being equal (or unequal for this matter).
I would bleed & die the same way whether I was just a Black-American or just Asian & the exact same as a white woman.
Wow does that mean if he thought either of the spouses would turn out to be a drug user/dealer/theif/alcholic 5 years down the road he would have refused to marry them too, just in case they have children, and I emphasize IF They Have.
The race we belong to is the human race; there is no black, white or asian because our ancestors came from Africa. Humans are an intelligent race but when are we going to stop having this conversation. We are all connected and related.
The thing about all this is the JP should never had opened his mouth. Yes we are at free will to think what we want, unfortunatley, no matter how ignorant it is, we can not force them upon others. Laws are in place where he does not have the right to turn anyone away on the basis of race. He should have lied & said he was booked or something other then what he did because in his own way he forced his opinion on them. Now he has just caused problems for himself & will be forced to endure the opinions of those who are not stuck in the mindset of former slave masters. I mean come on... He actual said that he allows his "black friends" to use his bathroom. What I get from that is.. "oh thank you master, you mean I don't have to use the outhouse sir?"
What makes it even more sad is the fact that Louisiana has one of the most diverse cultural backrounds. How many of us most likely have a French/African, German/African, English/African or all of the above, with a touch of Indian in us??????
Wow!! Where's the late George Carlin when you need him. "If you don't like black people, your daughter will marry a black man." All I can say is I hope Judge Bardwell has children and grandchildren. It will be a glorious day (for the rest of us) when his own family marries bi-racially.
And for those of you who think he has the "right" to turn them away, you've got a lot to learn about law. If he was a preacher, yes he'd have the right. But he's a justice of the peace. That's a horse of a different color. Yes, pun intended.
I'm a (white) transplanted South Carolinian living in LA. I've been shocked at the amount of racism in my new (and temporary-thank goodness) city. I think this justice should step down. His views, opinions, and ideas are sickening.
You just gave me a good idea Ken... I'm bout to google Mr. Barwell right now & see what I can find out about his family. Maybe he has a son. I'll try to woo him! That'll show him. Not only will he be dating one other race, but 2. I'm doing this one for all those who believe we are of one race! Man I hope he's cute & not as ugly as his daddy's way of thinking! LOL
I support Louisiana Justice of the Peace Keith Bardwell completely!
why do people in the north think southerners are backward, inbred, retarded racists? stories like this!
My wife and I are an interracial couple (interesting how many assume interracial must mean black/white) from New Orleans who attended school in Hammond, with 4 children. How awful the racial situation in in Louisiana cannot be truly appreciated until you live there. In New Orleans there is constant race baiting on both the black and white side of the fence. And there's all kinds of degrees: it was frustrating to me that black on white racism which is rampant in New Orleans, is never addressed, or the hostility shown an interracial couple by members of the black community. That said, I mean come on - in Metairie, which is the money part of New Orleans - people proudly display David Duke signs. The good news is that there is much positive change in black/white marriages and their acceptance by the community in the U.S. I live in Omaha, Nebraska now, a far more conservative city than New Orleans, and there are many interracial families here, with minimal prejudice.
Bardell, no Mr or JP, just plain Bardell; might take a moment to review the racial status of some of the ladies and gents fighting on behalf of his country in Iraq and Afghanistan. I wonder if he would have the cojones to tell a young Marine, he (or she in these enlightened times), cannot marry his/her fiancee, because Bardell disapproves. I think he would find himself at ER with his next meal being delivered via a tube.
Having said that, only reasoned educated, intelligent debate will destroy these dinosaurs.
Failing that a piece of 4" x 4" hardwood.
Keep backing those good ol' boys into a corner, then release the 'gators.
It is idiots like this man that are running around this earth and they don't even know how stupid they are. Yet another fool who will be the cause of another Civil War. If you listen to his rationale(which there is none)he really thinks he is doing the couple of favor. Well, better yet in Tangipahoa Parish the racism there is so historic that he thought to avoid any future problems for the couple and their children it may be a better idea not the marry them. I am sure the KKK in them parts are very active and hold regular meetings which I am sure he attends.
And us all a favor, I am sick and tired of you people always saying that "I have black friends". What he really meant was I have black that I call friends that work for me and I treat them like slaves and just because they don't kick his ass he thinks they are friends. What a fool are and once again you people continue to show your colors. You are officially on the stupid list with Joe Wilson from SC. These ain't the 60's!
Bardell, no Mr or JP, just plain Bardell; might take a moment to review the racial status of some of the ladies and gents fighting on behalf of his country in Iraq and Afghanistan. I wonder if he would have the cojones to tell a young Marine, he (or she in these enlightened times), cannot marry his/her fiancee, because Bardell disapproves. I think he would find himself at ER with his next meal being delivered via a tube.
Having said that, only reasoned educated, intelligent debate will destroy these dinosaurs.
Failing that a piece of 4" x 4" hardwood.
Keep backing those good ol' boys into a corner, then release the 'gators.
I am Half puerto rican and Half irish, and my boyfriend is half black and half german and we are planning to get married soon. I look very white, and I swear to god if any racist ignorant person tries to deny us our right to marriage I will sue until they are paying me for the rest of their lives.
"I support Louisiana Justice of the Peace Keith Bardwell completely!"
Inbred folks think alike!
Good Interracial Marriage should be banned!!!!!! These sorry balck men chasing these white women needs to cease
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