Andrew Sullivan For Gay Marriage Analysis

Marriage is more than a commitment between two people it is public recognition of a loving bond. Andrew Sullivan’s essay “For Gay Marriage” characterizes marriage as “ a kind of commitment that is rare”(Sullivan). Denying homosexuals the right to marry is a form of segregation and a contradiction to the “pursuit of happiness”. Preventing homosexuals from marriage alienates them from society. This sanction punishes homosexuals from pursuing their happiness, which is a contradiction for what America stands for. Marriage needs to be available for every citizen, so every citizen has the opportunity for happiness. The public views homosexuals as a second- class citizen, because of the government’s lack of recognition given to gay couples.” As

Traditions are a reflection of an individual’s beliefs yet in history beliefs have been modified by newer generations. Similarly, Marriage should be modified to accommodate for all sexual orientations. By definition marriage is between a man and a woman, but this tradition shows more than just sex, it’s a “public contract an emotional, financial, and psychological bond” (Sullivan). Marriage is an ancient ritual that’s been long over due for an update in other words this custom does not apply to everyone anymore.

Second there is no logical reason why only heterosexuals should be granted the privilege of marriage. Homosexuals and heterosexuals both have the same marriage fundamental that is to fulfill their life commitment toward their counterparts. There has been no evidence that a traditional marriage is more stable than a homosexual couple. But the thing is, “Heterosexuality of marriage is intrinsic only if it is understood to be intrinsically procreative” (Sullivan). Although what Sullivan said is true, society can take a stand and teach adolescents that homosexuality is also

Homosexuals have always been in society, they “exist and they have equivalent emotional needs and temptations as heterosexuals” (Sullivan). The LGBT community never deserved to be discriminated as second-rate citizens. Marriage may be “reeling because of the effects of the sexual revolution” (Bennett). But society needs time to adjust to this radical change, which will make marriage in America a stronger tradition. But for America to become a city upon a hill society must set aside these minor differences and realize sexual orientation isn’t a plague against