In the Missouri State Senate, a fiery exchange erupted this week as Sen. Mike Moon (R) staunchly defended the prerogative of parents to permit the marriage of their offspring, some as young as 12 years old.
This verbal joust unfolded in the midst of a contentious debate concerning a proposed ban on gender-mutilation care for transgender minors. During the heated dialogue, Democratic State Rep. Peter Meredith accused Moon of hypocrisy, asserting that the senator claimed to be a proponent of parental rights while simultaneously supporting the bill.
Accusing Moon of tacitly endorsing the legality of child marriages, Meredith continued his assault by suggesting that the senator’s position would enable the violation of a 12-year-old by an adult, given parental consent. Moon’s retort was swift and unyielding.
“Do you know any kids who have been married at age 12?” he inquired of Meredith. “I do. And guess what? They’re still married.”
The Ramifications of Child Marriage
The consequences of such young marriages are manifold and often dire. Young brides and grooms, ill-equipped to navigate the complexities of marital life, are susceptible to a host of social, economic, and psychological challenges. These children may be deprived of educational opportunities, limiting their potential for growth and development, and exacerbating generational cycles of poverty.
Moreover, the physical and emotional toll of early marriage can be immense. Young girls who become pregnant at an early age face heightened risks during childbirth, and their offspring are more likely to suffer from health complications. Additionally, the pressures of marital responsibilities may lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues among both young husbands and wives.
As society grapples with the question of child marriage, the emotional and ideological clash witnessed in the Missouri State Senate serves as a stark reminder that the debate is far from settled. Advocates for change must continue to strive for progress, with the understanding that the well-being of countless young lives hangs in the balance.
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— Jess Piper (@piper4missouri) April 12, 2023