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1.22.2010

controversial prop 8 proponent testifies

More on Hak-Shing William Tam, a controversial figure in the Prop 8 movement, who was called to testify yesterday as a hostile witness in the lawsuit against California's same-sex marriage ban: Prop. 8 backer stands by views on pedophilia.

Attorneys for two couples suing to overturn Prop 8 called Tam to testify as a hostile witness to prove that bias toward gays fueled the campaign to pass the measure. Not exactly sure what they were trying to get from him... but I think they got it.

Tam said that he likened same-sex marriage to pedophilia, polygamy and legalizing sex with children, and that California would fall into the "hands of Satan" if gay and lesbian couples could wed.

He also said that the thinks gays are "12 times more likely" to be pedophiles, "based on the different literature [he has] read." Though, when pressed to cite any work he had read to substantiate his views, he said couldn't remember specifics. More court coverage here: Same-Sex Marriage Case, Day 8: Power and Prejudice.

Apparently, other Proposition 8 supporters have even tried to distance themselves from Tam. I can't imagine why! Some more here: William Tam: He's like that Cute Ignorant Uncle That Everybody Cringes At. (Thanks, Manish.)