...Same Sex Marriage Recently the discussion of same sex marriage has been a hot topic in both the political and religious arenas. This controversial issue has caused many citizens to take a solid stance on same sex marriages based on his or her morals, beliefs, and viewpoints. Popular reasons that citizens considered when deciding their stance are civil rights, religion, parenting, and financial matters. This paper will break down the pros and cons of each of the reasons listed and attempt to come to a conclusion of should same sex marriages be legalized in the state of Californians. Civil Rights The Constitution of the United States was written in 1776, which during that time there were no gender specifications noted pertaining to the recognition of a legal marriage. Same sex marriage debate is so large that in 1996, President Bill Clinton signed for the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which clarified that marriage is between a man and woman. The main reason gay and lesbian couples are fighting hard to legalize same sex marriage is so those couples will be allowed to and benefit from the same government, financial, and legal stances as heterosexuals marriages. Several states allow partnerships or civil union for same sex couples, however, they are denied certain rights given to heterosexual couples (National Conference of State Legislatures, 2013). Because of the growing debate of same sex marriages, President Obama administration said that it would no longer defend...
Words: 2509 - Pages: 11
...Southern New Hampshire University 10-2 Same-Sex Marriage Kari Harmon Professor Mary Orcutt June 08, 2014 Introduction Same-sex marriage, popularly known as gay marriage, is a socially or legally reorganized wedlock between two persons of similar social gender or biological sex. Although the idea of same-sex marriage can be traced back to ancient times, in the United States, it not is legally reorganized at the national level. Some federal governments have, however managed to legalize same-sex marriage; namely in Massachusetts, Vermont, the district of Columbia, Iowa and Connecticut. The issue of same-sex marriage is one that has attracted a lot of controversies world over. In many nations, it has attracted conflicts in such issues as social, moral, political, religious and civil rights. The argument of same-sex marriage is an important one. The question of legalization of same sex marriages is an issue in many of our states today. I would like to argue that same-sex marriages do not infringe on any civil rights, but it is also immoral. We, as Christians, should not be afraid to stand up and use our Constitutional rights to speak against same-sex marriages. The debate over whether same-sex marriage should be legalized has focused on the infringement of civil rights. State recognition of marriages is not a common right. States control marriages in many ways, not just by denying same sex gender the right to marry. Approximately...
Words: 996 - Pages: 4
...22 Feb 2014 When thinking about same-sex marriage some of the the most common questions that appear have to do with the impact it will have. How will this effect todays society such as the impact on the future generation, the affect on the institution of marriage, and the legality of gay marriage. Most of all this paper will cover some questions that have to do about how society’s attitude toward gay marriage has changed. The most common occurrence of this topic is in current events in the United States. Same-sex marriage is the big topic of discussion now and is very relevant today with changing the institution of marriage. The long term effects of the continuing changes to the institution of marriage are the battle of equality, giving the rights for all couples to marry. Although many changes have happened throughout the history of marriage, struggles still occur today for all types of marriages. This topic influences everyone today. People have an opinion on the situation whether good or bad. The impact of this subject is huge. Not only are the people who are fighting for equality affected but everyone else as well. Even if people turn their cheek to the issue they still play a role. Same-sex relationships will continue to evolve and it will take everyone’s involvement to make changes. For instance interracial marriage has paved the way for marriage equality and much of what interracial couple have gone through is what same-sex couples are going through today...
Words: 1676 - Pages: 7
...1 December 2015 As of June 26, 2015 same-sex marriage became legal in all 50 states. Although some people are still against it. Same-sex marriage can help in many ways whether it is helping with benefits, adoption, or lowering divorce rates. To begin with, same-sex couples should have access to the same benefits enjoyed by hetersexual married couples. When couples get married they get many benefits. Some benefits include hospital visitation, protection of an ending relationship, taxation rights, access to family health coverage. According to a poll taken by the New York Times “a same-sex couple denied marriage benefits will incur an additional $41,196 to $467,562 in expenses over their lifetime compared to a married heterosexual couple” (Gay Marriage). Gay marriage is in the Constitution’s commitments to liberty and equality. In 1974, court case Cleveland Board of Education vs. LaFleur the Supreme Court ruled “freedom of personal choice in matters of marriage and family life is one of the liberties protected by the Due Process Clause”. (Gay Marriage) The Due process law is a safeguard of life, liberty, or property by the Government. Banning same-sex marriage is unconstitutional under the Due Process and Equal Protection Clause. There are a lot of children being born that families cannot take care of for various reasons. To adopt a child the couple must be married and in a stable home. If same-sex couples get married they will be allowed to adopt...
Words: 414 - Pages: 2
...11/8/06 Argument Essay Same-Sex Marriage: Not a Match for Society Marriage, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is “the legal relationship into which a man and a woman enter with purpose of making a home and raising a family” (358).Although most people in the United States, including myself, agree on that definition, there are a select few who do not. Some feel same-sex marriage should be legalized; I disagree! I disagree because of its effects on children, its unnaturalness, and its religious immorality. My first argument addresses the effects of homosexual parents on children; and children affected by homosexuality in general. A child living in a home with homosexual parents encounters the problem of the lack of either a mother or father figure, which is important in raising a child, instead of being raised by both a mother and a father. Studies have shown that being raised by a mother and a father, children are less likely to do drugs, commit suicide, or become pregnant (Dobson). Another disadvantage to homosexual rearing is the child may become confused about his or her gender and sexuality. One source explained that females raised in a lesbian home are four times as likely to become lesbians themselves; and for males raised in a gay home, they are twice as likely to become gay as well (Kiley 2). Another concern for children with homosexual parents is sexual abuse from one or both of the parents, which is fifty times as likely as opposed to heterosexual parents (Kiley...
Words: 754 - Pages: 4
...Research paper: Same-sex Marriage Petra Jerabkova Sociology 316: Marriage and Family Dr. Alston April 10, 2014 The legalization of same-sex marriage has been a battle that has been raging since the late twentieth century. By not allowing same-sex marriage, the United Sates are creating discrimination against same-sex couples. People of faith are the biggest advocates against same-sex marriages. With the belief that marriage is the foundation for procreation, same-sex couples, without the ability to have their own child, should not be allowed the right of marriage. Seeing that there are many rights and responsibilities associated with marriage, same-sex couples are denied these and are being discriminated against. Same-sex couples are denied the right to make decisions regarding their partner’s health and medical treatment. This emotional trauma, as well as the inability to adopt one another’s children, is experienced by same-sex couples every day. Although many states have adopted civil unions, they are separate and unequal. Same-sex marriage should be legalized to create equality and eliminate the injustice involving same-sex couples. In early times, same-sex marriage was not considered taboo and in many cultures, it was encouraged. Random History (2011) explains that in the early civilizations of Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt, the union between couples of the same-sex was recognized by the kingdom. During Greek’s early years, attraction between...
Words: 2204 - Pages: 9
... SAME-SEX MARRIAGE Marriage is considered an important aspect of community and culture. It is a right that is not given without serious consideration. Marriage comes with all types of benefits. Property rights, tax related rights, social security benefits, joint parenting and adoption, and estate planning to name a few. Also signifies a couple’s commitment to one another. The right to marriage should be available to all United States citizens. Regardless of sexual orientation. Gays and lesbians (homosexuals) should be able to marry and have the same rights and privileges as heterosexuals. Same-sex marriage is the union of two people of the same gender. Same-sex marriage is a constitutional and human right. In 1978, the Supreme Court ruled marriage as “A fundamental importance to all individuals and the most important relation of life.” The federal government goes by the constitution. The constitution doses not discuss or deal with same-sex marriage directly. Therefore, the federal government doses not recognize same-sex marriage. Same-sex couples are hoping to get federal and state benefits alongside heterosexual couples. The ones against same-sex marriage believe the gays and lesbians (homosexuals) have done something wrong and should be denied the rights and privileges that come with marriage. They think the idea of legalizing same-sex marriage would put the whole idea of marriage a risk of being redefined entirely. While, individuals for same-sex marriage believe...
Words: 486 - Pages: 2
...equality. Equality is the one thing that many Americans before us have fought and lost their lives over for centuries. Whether it be for race, religion, or the right to marry whichever gender we please, equality is the most profound rights that we have not only as American citizens, but as human beings. In this paper I will discuss my views on same sex marriage and analyze how the states Massachusetts and California are more liberal than the state of Kentucky when it comes to the issues of same sex marriage. The states Massachusetts and California are more liberal than the state of Kentucky when it comes to the issues of same sex marriage. In my opinion all American states should follow the state of Massachusetts and allow the right to same sex marriages. Granting legal marriage rights under the law must extend to gays and lesbians to ensure that all citizens enjoy full human rights. Same sex marriage is not only the marriage of man and man or woman and woman, but the marriage of two human beings who are in love. Love sees no gender, and my location should not play a role in who I can and can not marry. Literature Review Same sex marriage has been a major issue in our country for years. This issue has played majors roles in matters such as the legislators we elect, the places we choose to reside, and who we will elect as the next president of the United States. On May 17th, 2004, Massachusetts began marrying gay and lesbian couples. At this point only residents of...
Words: 2381 - Pages: 10
...The topic of same sex marriages has flooded our headlines for many years, particularly whether or not it should be legalized. This highly controversial subject has been one that has been very difficult for many people to accept. So imagine that you were in love with someone and you were told you that you couldn’t marry that person. How would that make you feel and what if this was someone you absolutely could not live without? What would you do? These are questions that many people in our society face every day just because of their sexual orientation. Although controversial, the right to marry should be afforded to everyone regardless of sexual orientation. When we look at the legal definition of marriage, according to the Oxford Dictionary, marriage is “the formal union of a man and a woman, typically recognized by law, by which they become husband and wife.” (Oxford Dictionary, 2013) However, in a changing society, where past cultural norms are no longer the norm, this definition should change to fit the times. When it comes to same sex marriages, homosexuals are making great progress in obtaining the same rights as heterosexuals. Just this year, the US Supreme court provided one of the biggest victories of all by striking down parts of the Defense Marriage Act that once denied same sex couples the same benefits that are provided to heterosexual spouses. There are currently only 13 states, which include Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, New Hampshire...
Words: 1904 - Pages: 8
...Same-Sex Marriage: The Problems with DOMA and the Pursuit for Equality Believe it or not, same-sex marriage has been around since ancient times. At least two Roman Emperors, Nero and Elagabalus, were in gay unions. It wasn’t until the advent of Christianity that the practice of same sex marriage was out-lawed by the emperors Constantius II and Constans in 342 AD and has continued to be through-out most of the world until the twenty-first century (Boswell 83). With the advent of gay rights movement in many industrialized countries, same-sex marriage has become more accepted. A prime example of this is what lawmakers in the state of New York did on June 24, 2011. With a thirty-three to twenty-nine vote, the legislature legalized same-sex marriage, making it the largest state where gay and lesbian couples can now get married (New York Times 2011). However, Even with recent legalization of gay marriage in some parts of the nation there are still states that are strongly against it. States such as Alaska, Hawaii, Nebraska and Nevada have, by popular vote, passed Defense of Marriage Acts (DOMAs) as a constitutional amendment. This gives states the legal right not to recognize same-sex marriage from other states where it is legal. I will argue that DOMA legislation is discriminatory and that same-sex couples have a legal right to the same marriage benefits and public acknowledgment enjoyed by heterosexual couples. Also, that second-class remedies such as civil unions and...
Words: 1511 - Pages: 7
...election. This proposition added a section to the California Constitution providing “Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California” (Wohlsen & Hoag, 2009). Voting yes and getting the win on Proposition 8 will define marriage in California (to mean only) a union between one man and one woman. Yes will add exactly 14 words to the California State Constitution: “Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." Voting no on Proposition 8 will define marriage in California( to mean) a union between any two people regardless of gender, which would include same-sex couples (Wohlsen & Hoag, 2009). Clearly, the effects of this vote will be far-reaching and long lasting. Advocates of Proposition 8 urge people to consider many consequences prior to voting. The following will explore counter arguments effecting these consequences and show that Proposition 8 is unconstitutional as it “violates the due process and equal protection rights of gays and lesbians under the U.S. Constitution by denying them the right to marry the person of their choice and by singling them out for disparate treatment without a legitimate rationale” (Ashby, 2010). Same Sex Marriage: Overturn Ban on Same Sex Marriage in California An Argument to Vote No on Proposition 8 During the hearing, it was argued that Propositions 8’s withdrawal of the right of marriage from gays and lesbians was unconstitutional as it violates their civil rights. The reason...
Words: 2388 - Pages: 10
...Marriage is defined as a contract by which a man and a woman engage to live with each other during their join lives, in the union which ought to exist between husband and wife. Marriage has always been a sacred agreement between a man and a woman. This definition was written in the Bible and sanctified by God. Our country was founded on the principles of the Bible therefore should not support an action, such as legalizing same sex marriage, which goes against our founding beliefs. Same sex marriages has a major impact on today’s society in regards to the union of marriage being legalized in all states, how future generations will be affected and how it will affect the institution of marriage in the future. When it comes to the issue of same sex marriage, many people have different views. Research shows that the majority of Americans oppose same sex marriage, but when it comes to deciding who should make the laws, Americans are split in half . (Bayles) 48% of Americans said that the federal government should make the laws and 46% say it should be left to the states. This information shows that the majorities of Americans have strong opinions about the issue, but don’t know of any way to solve the issue. The debate over same-sex marriage has been a prominent issue in our society over many years now, appearing in several ballot initiatives such as California's Proposition 8. The idea of allowing two people of the same gender to enter into the institution of marriage has brought...
Words: 591 - Pages: 3
...Same Sex Marriage Marriage has always been a commitment between a man and a woman. It is a relationship that comes from human nature, established by God. Simultaneously, same sex marriage opposes nature and therefore if it is legalized, it will change the foundation of society. Consequently, it will violate natural law, and cause marriage to be less meaningful. No doubt, it will no longer hold its value and lose tradition. Same sex marriage should be illegal because it ignores a child’s best interest, it is not natural, and it offends God by sinning and violating his word. However, a nurturing environment for little children is in a home brought up with two parents, a man and a woman that are in a marriage together. Not a home with either two males or two females. It can cause confusion in children. Same sex marriage ignores a child’s best interest. “Based on the medical, biological, psychological, social, and other evidence, all else being equal, same sex couples cannot best parent a child in their household” It creates an unstable environment for raising children. Children in these circumstances do not receive all the benefits of being brought up with a married mother and father. Each gender is important for child development. Children brought up by gay and lesbian couples are at more of a risk of struggling academically, living poorly, having behavior problems, and at times having kids at an early age Following this, children need both parents a masculine father and a feminine...
Words: 1067 - Pages: 5
...Same-Sex Marriage and Tradition Nancy Messer University of Phoenix Business Communications and Critical Thinking COM275 Fernando Gutierrez-Rueda November 01, 2012 Same Sex-Marriage and Tradition Gay marriage violates tradition. The definition of “tradition”, according to the Oxford Dictionary, is a “long-established custom or belief that has been passed on from one generation to another”. It has been a long-established custom and belief that marriage should only exist between a man and a woman. “A central point of contention in the national debate over same-sex marriage is the importance of preserving tradition. Opponents of such bans argue that tradition is an illegitimate justification for the bans, while defenders of traditional marriage contend that tradition is not only a legitimate justification, but is in fact sufficiently important to withstand heightened judicial scrutiny.” (Ford-Mazrui, 2011, para. 1) Society divides themselves based on class: income, religion, finances, ethnicity, etc.; the majority holding control over the minority since the beginning of time. There is and always will be some group of minorities that are segregated. Traditionally, most cultures have defined marriage as a unification of one man and one woman, but tradition has a dark history. Tradition includes the ownership of slaves, incongruous treatment of workers, and the denial of rights to women. The abolishment of slavery, the women’s rights movement, and civil rights proved that...
Words: 2331 - Pages: 10
...have been challenged to make decisions that have oppressed and freed certain groups of people. The political fight for same-sex marriages is a perfect example of this notion. This relation between spouses has created a major controversy that is creating history in our nation. A series of protests, acts and political scandal has opened America to discuss a topic that had been in “the closet” for a long time. This discussion asks questions that have caused a visceral reaction in society. Same sex marriage opens the door to a new unnatural purpose that could detrimentally influence the fragile generations to come. Tradition is a strong component in the institution of marriage. The ideal American dream usually involves the perfect fairy-tale wedding with the gorgeous white wedding dress for the bride, the matching bridesmaids, the well-arranged bouquet and, the numerous rituals that compose this well thought-out event. Usually it requires a spectacular amount of planning, devotion and dollars to make the important day memorable. Family and friends come together to rejoice in the vows that will bond the two lovers into a lifetime journey of love, commitment and fidelity. Both persons in the relation is expected to have a role in this institution. According to Judith Wallerstein and Sandra Blakeslee, “In the idealized form of the older model of traditional marriage, the man’s primary job for self-definition is to provide for the economic well-being, protection, and stability of his...
Words: 1703 - Pages: 7
