Gay Marriage Should Be Legalized

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Traditionally in this country, marriage has been defined as a religious and legal commitment between a man and a woman. Homosexual relationships are slowly gaining acceptance in this country; however these same-sex couples cannot marry legally, have or adopt children, and are believed to threaten society. Some states are performing commitment ceremonies called “civil unions” which is marriage without using the word “marriage”. Many heterosexual citizens as well as politicians are against gay marriage, but, believe it should be left up to the states to decide. Joe Messerli states, “Many politicians are calling for amendments to their state constitution. Many areas of the country such as San Francisco have performed marriage ceremonies in defiance of the law… the basic question is, Should we allow gay couples to marry legally?”

Denying homosexuals of marriage is a violation of religious freedom. The main reason for denial of gay marriage is that all major religions view homosexuality as a sin. The First Amendment states that a person’s religious views must be protected. Joe Messerli states, “the government cannot start making laws just because a religion says they should. What’s next, should we make taking the Lord’s name in vain a criminal activity because Christians consider it a breaking of a commandment.” Almost every religion in the world considers homosexuality unacceptable. It is offensive to most people and a put-down to religious freedom that people have to recognize a relationship they consider sinful. Laws stated in the Bible developed into the legal system in the United States.

But, why should others care about gay marriage? Vice President Dick Cheney opened his 2004 debate, “freedom means freedom for everyone.” It m...

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...exuals themselves. Children will be exposed to a great deal of teasing and hatred by fellow students and this could negatively affect his or her development. Evidence shows family structure matters most and a child’s well-being is the intact, biological, married family.

Calling gay marriage a threat to society is nothing but being discriminatory towards two same-sex individuals who just want to be treated equal. Homosexuals should have the same rights as heterosexuals. If two people are in love whether it is with the same sex or opposite sex he or she should be allowed to marry. Children can be raised by same-sex couples with the same love and nurturing as children that were raised by opposite sex couples. Therefore, causing no harm to heterosexual’s marriage and lifestyle; gay marriage should be legalized giving homosexuals the rights he or she should have.

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