Jerry Sanders in The Huffington Post

On Civil Rights: Proud to testify for same-sex marriage equality

My thinking on this important issue has evolved significantly in the past few years. Not long ago, I believed that civil unions were an acceptable alternative for same-sex couples. Like many people, I mistakenly thought there was no difference between a civil union and a marriage.

My eyes were opened in 2007, when I had to decide whether to support a ban on same-sex marriage in my capacity as mayor of San Diego. I realized that my position was inconsistent with one of my core principles: that every community deserves to be treated with equal dignity and respect.

On Civil Rights: 2007: Switched from supporting civil unions to marriage

Running for mayor in 2005, I did not believe that marriage equality was an issue for city governments to address. When I was asked, I said I supported civil unions, believing they were an acceptable compromise on a divisive issue.

In 2007, the City Council challenged California's ban on same-sex marriage. I had 10 days to decide whether to sign or veto the resolution. I was advised that signing the resolution could end my political career, because I would be reversing a position I took as a candidate. [Listening to both sides], I realized that all opposition to same-sex marriage, including my own opposition, was grounded in prejudice. I knew my position was wrong, and that marriage equality was an issue I needed to address as mayor. And I knew I would sign the resolution.