Gay Marriage

By Cameron Simonsen

What is gay marriage?

The issue of gay marriage is one over whether or not same-sex couples should be given the same marriage
rights as heterosexual couples within the US as an extension of gay rights.
The controversy mainly stems from issues of morality, particularly in regards to religion and the tradition of
marriage being strictly between a man and a woman.
Public opinion has been slowly shifting over time. A 2013 Gallup poll states that 53% of Americans are in
support of legalizing gay marriage across all 50 states. The issue still remains heavily controversial,
however.

The religious aspect of it all

While the Bible does address homosexuality, it does not explicitly mention gay marriage/same-sex
marriage. It is clear, however, that the Bible condemnshomosexuality as an immoral and unnatural sin.
Leviticus 18:22 identifies homosexual sex as an abomination, a detestable sin. Romans 1:26-27 declares
homosexual desires and actions to be shameful, unnatural, lustful, and indecent. First Corinthians 6:9
states that homosexuals are unrighteous and will not inherit the kingdom of God. Since both homosexual
desires and actions are condemned in the Bible, it is clear that homosexuals marrying is not Gods will,
and would be, in fact, sinful.

Freedom to marry
Freedom to Marry is a website dedicated to the purpose of attending equal marriage rights for same-sex
couples in all fifty states. It provided to be very helpful in regards to research on gay marriage.
A study in canada founded that most couples , 85% just want the proper rights that went with marriage.
There are 1,138 benefits rights and protections for marital status in federal law.
There use to be a time where African Americans couldnt marry in America. It wasnt until 1967 that it was
unconstitutional in Virginia for African Americans too.

Pros
Gay marriage can bring financial gain to state and local governments. Revenues from gay marriage come
from higher taxes and marriage licenses.
Gay marriage is protected by the Constitutions commitments to liberty and equality
Gay marriage would improve the lives of orphan and foster children with a stable home with two loving
adults.
Laws should change as society grows. Interracial marriage was banned until 1967. It changed because
people became more open minded. Since this is the 20th century grown, the laws should change as
well.

Cons
Marriage is defined as a religious right that is between a man and a woman. It would destroy the meaning
of marriage.
The institution of marriage has traditionally been defined as a man and a woman. According to biblical
times, it is a sin for the same sin sex to unite in marriage.
Same sex couples can not produce children. One of the stated reason for marriage is to produce offsprings.
Allowing same sex marriage is not a right. It is a privilege for heterosexual couples. It does not go against
our Constitution.

Issues that couples are also issues that same sex

couples face
Social Security Payments
Pension and Health
Jobs and retirement