“I Now Pronounce You…” Equal

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Recommended: Essays on why same sex marriage should stay legal

The idea that marriage can only be between a man and a woman is an antiquated belief. While understanding and sympathizing with the concern that same-sex marriage will change the traditional definition of marriage, people must come to realize that same-sex unions have no effect on heterosexual relationships. People can argue rights or family life or religion, constituting a strong argument, but ultimately, no argument is as strong as that of equality. Marriage is a celebration of life and love that should be available to both heterosexual and same sex couples.
Gay marriage is a matter of civil rights. Jennifer Hamady wrote, “Marriage, as an institution, has evolved greatly throughout human history.” Not long ago, marriage implied having stay-at-home wives, with the male being the “bread-winner” but this is no longer the case. Marriage has evolved to not only being a more equal union but also, many women are taking the role as the primary earner. In the same way, marriage could evolve from being just between a man and a woman to same-sex couples. On ProCon.org, it stated that marriage, among many other things, is "one of the basic civil rights of man," and same-sex marriages should be looked at similarly to and receive the same protection as interracial marriages. In 2012, the NAACP named same-sex marriage as "one of the key civil rights struggles of our time," and just like other civil rights issues of the past, we must learn to accept it and move past it. Marriage constitutes certain rights. In legal standing, spousal rights should apply to same-sex couples, allowing them to reap the same benefits such as tax deductions, insurance, and recognition of their union. This includes rights recognition as being part of your “family” du...

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...tain religions and beliefs have been persecuted throughout history but in these circumstances, the religious are acting as the persecutors. Who are we to judge? Who are we to create boundaries for others?
Same-sex relationships should not be limited because it is different, or strange, in certain eyes. George Clooney said: “At some point in our lifetime, gay marriage won't be an issue, and everyone who stood against this civil right will look as outdated as George Wallace standing on the school steps keeping James Hood from entering the University of Alabama because he was black.” Change is inevitable. Gay rights have already grown and become more inclusive, and no religious beliefs or family concerns or civil rights issues will stop them from growing more. Love is love, and marriage is the greatest way of expressing it, which is why it should be open to everyone.

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