Same Sex Marriage

Marriage is an institution long recognized by our government under the right to pursue happiness; however, marriage is much more than merely a commitment to love one another. Society has become accustom to what they believe is "normal" by their traditions and religious beliefs. Many people believe that same-sex marriage is not "normal". The simple fact is that banning same-sex marriage is discrimination. Marriage is a gateway to many other areas of protections, responsibilities and benefits. These areas include health care, tax, immigration, and parenting benefits. However, these benefits are not provided to all couples in love. However, these benefits are not provided to all couples in love. Gay and lesbian relationships have become more widespread in America, and for many, a major fight for the right to have recognized marriages and to receive the same benefits as other married couples.

HISTORY

During the 1950's and 1960's the rights of gay people were vigorously pressed by the homophile movement, particularly the Mattachine Society (mainly gay men) and the Daughters of Bilitis (lesbians). These groups, however, did not stress marriage. (case for same sex marriage 52). As lesbian, gay men, and bisexuals became more open about their sexuality, more long-term same-sex relationships than ever before in human history were established. The partners in such unions overwhelmingly considered themselves committed, and many considered themselves "married". (case for same sex marriage 45). Presently, there is strong evidence demonstrating the existence of same-sex unions, including legally recognized marriges in Native American, African, and Asian cultures. (case for same sex marriage 27).

So far, only two countries - Belgium and the Netherlands have given full legal status to same-sex unions, though Canada has backed the idea in principle and others have conferred almost. (Economist.com 2/26/04). When America prides itself on always being on the cutting edge of technology, why would we be the last country in favor of basic human rights?

CURRENT ISSUES

Many people in same-sex relationships feel that their commitment is stronger because of the issues they face just being in a relationship. The controversy over gay marriage has inspired a great deal of debate about how much power the government should have in marriage issues. Many arguments focus on whether judges or legislators should have the authority to define marriage. The second debate concerns the balance of power between federal and state interests. Some believe that the federal government should impose uniform marriage laws across the nation. Others argue that states should be able to determine their own laws to regulate marriage within their boundaries. Finally, the third debate is over the historic separation of church and state. Since marriage can be viewed as both a religious institution and a civil procedure, people disagree about whether religious organizations or the government should be entitled to delimit and regulate marriage. Other arguments that contend that overall society will be damaged by allowing homosexual marriages are that an increased burden will be placed