This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
I apologize for deeply offending many people with my comment about semen donors during the recent legislative session ("Utah lawmakers make move to stop adoption 'forum shopping,'" Tribune, March 14).
The discussion at the time of my comment was about adoption and paternal rights. It was not my intent to diminish or offend any father who is trying to be part of his child's life.
What did I learn from this experience? I learned that I do not have all of life's perspectives. Because of my comment, I have heard from many fathers who desperately want to be part of their children's lives but have been prohibited by Utah laws and a court system that may not be totally fair and equitable to men.
I gained insight about how this problem affects children. I am better informed now. Thank you for the valuable education provided by free and open speech and the free press. I really do appreciate it.
Rep. Edward Redd
Logan