Traditionally speaking, marriage has always been defined as a ‘legal and sacred bond between a man and woman.’ But because it is also expressed as ‘the ultimate expression of love’, the former definition of marriage is being questioned. The issue of legalizing same-sex marriages is raised. If marriage is ‘the ultimate expression of love,’ then how come gays are not allowed to wed? What happens if a couple is in love with one another—however, it just happens that they are of the same gender? With the number of homosexual relationships gaining acceptance in the world, it is only reasonable why they would question why they are not permitted to marry each other.
The issue has been heard by politicians and they are already taking action on it. Because they want people to have equal rights, many politicians have left this decision to individual states. Currently, there are 6 states that have legalized gay marriages in the United States. The next question is: ‘should this form of union be legalized in the entire country?’
Here are some of the reasons why same sex marriages should be legalized:
-
It is a violation of religious freedom
Denying gay couples to wed is a violation of religious freedom; considering the fact that religious and civil marriages are different institutions. The biggest reason why gay couples are being denied to get married is because major religions regard homosexuality as a sin. Contrary to this, the First Amendment of the Constitution states that ‘an individual’s religious views or lack thereof must be protected.’ If gay couples decide to forego church weddings and instead, have a civil union, the government needs to adhere to their request. State marriages are a secular activity. Just because religion depicts otherwise, does not mean the government should make such laws.
-
It is a form of minority discrimination
The main foundation of the United States is the concept that the majority should rule, however, the rights of minorities should also be protected. This is the reason why the Bill of Rights was established along with equal protection and anti-slavery amendments. As such, denying marriage to a gay couple is the same as denying marriage to a bi-racial couple.
-
Love matters
As earlier mentioned, marriage is the ‘ultimate expression of love.’ The only reason why gay couples get married is because they love one another. If love isn’t the foundation of marriage, then all marriages; gay or not, should be criticized and examined. Each couple planning to get married should undergo a test to prove that they really love each other.
-
It does not hurt anyone or society
Marriage is the union between a couple. If gay couples are getting married, they are not making a commitment to the rest of the world; instead, they are committing themselves to one another. Since they do not care about other people’s choices, society should not dictate what they should do as well.
-
It will increase child adoptions
Since gay couples cannot procreate naturally, they have the option to adopt a child. Because of their love, they will support the child and accept him as their own. They will send him to school, feed him, buy him clothes, and provide shelter to him; just like any loving parents would. This will lessen the number of unloved children who do not have a place to stay.
Apart from the ones mentioned, there are other arguments as to why gay marriages should be legalized. These are only the ones that truly prove there is no reason not to legalize same-sex marriages in the United States.
[Source: Balanced Politics]