Dr. Laura Schlessinger is one of the last people I would invite into
my home. I’m exasperated by her disdain for premarital sex, premarital
cohabitation, same-sex adoption, and single parenting (to name only a
few). That said, I couldn’t wait to speak to her.
In radio for over 30 years, Dr. Laura (who has a Ph.D. in
physiology—she’s not a psychiatrist) began the Dr. Laura
Show in 1994. This nationally syndicated program features call-in
listeners seeking advice about relationships, parenting, and moral
dilemmas. Frequently criticized for her conservative beliefs—as
well as having her appearances regularly protested and picketed (which
will include her Portland appearance on Friday), Schlessinger gets flak
primarily for her views on homosexuality. Despite several apologies,
she’ll probably never live down her remark that gays are “biological
errors.”
Nevertheless, I still tune in to her show. Perhaps it’s the way she
smacks whiny Christian housewives into shape with her trademark
bluntness or the sheer absurdity of her views that keep me listening.
However, I have no plans to attend her show. Not only did she not
directly answer my question about same-sex marriage, but only a
one-woman show by Charo could get me to fork over $55 for a ticket.
MERCURY: First of all, please tell me exactly what
you mean by a “one-woman show.” Will you be singing and/or dancing?
What makes this show different than, say, a book signing?
DR. LAURA: This is a theatrical performance with me, my kid’s
mom, as the only performer. While folks coming into the theater fill
out 4 x 6 cards with their personal questions for me to select from and
answer… the evening consists of stories from my life, my 32 years on
radio, as well as my commentary about current events. It is a mixture
of lots of humor and deep profundity.
There has been some curiosity surrounding your choice to appear
in Portland. You are known to many as a “conservative talk-show host.”
Portland is known as a “liberal mecca.” Was there any hesitation on
your part about appearing in Portland (considering the political
climate here)?
Liberals are just as concerned with morals, values, ethics,
principles, and families as conservatives. My message supports the
lives of people regardless of political or social
affiliations!
You have received a great deal of criticism from gay/lesbian
organizations. What’s your opinion of same-sex marriage and/or same-sex
civil unions (both of which are a big issue in Oregon)?
I’m always delighted when people are willing to be deeply invested
in a quality relationship. However, I believe marriage is a
relationship between a man and a woman, which is a covenant with God
and a legal contract through the government, which provides the
security necessary for the creation and nurturance of children.
You speak sometimes about how you used to be a feminist.
Why did you change your views? Was there a specific event that changed
your mind?
Oh yes, I was a serious feminista. Realizing there was a lot more to
life than accomplishment, acquisition, and a perpetual state of
paranoia about male oppression saved me! The turning point was
recognizing my desire to be a mommy.
I hear you have an affinity for motorcycles. How many do you own?
Do you only ride Harleys?
I have a Harley Road King Trike to keep safe on the highway and
during charity rides. I just got a Honda Rebel 250 for fun after taking
the motorcycle driving/safety course… VERY COOL! I just have this
wild woman side to me, I guess.
So what do you think people will take home from your
show?
I get the most enjoyment hearing afterward from folks who brought
people who “hated me”—who report that having first-hand
experience with hearing and seeing me changed their minds and
hearts!