Premium Essay

Gay Rights and Religion

In:

Submitted By kellyk79
Words 2495
Pages 10
Kelly Krause
Research paper
PO 102-02
Gay rights and Religion

I choose to do my paper on gay rights and religion. I will be talking about Amendment 14. States that support gay marriage. Religious rights versus gay rights. Gay rights and religious freedom. Gay discrimination. Gay rights and the Constitution.

In February of 2004 San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom ordered the city clerk to issue marriage licenses to gay and lesbian couples. The issue that had simmered in the background for years was moved toward the front of the nation's political agenda. Supporters of the more traditional conceptions of marriage fought Newsom in the courts. When they failed there they were placed on California's 2008 ballot that would restrict marriage to heterosexual couples only. Before the 2008 election Massachusetts and Connecticut had already legalized same-sex marriage. Soon after California's vote, Vermont and Iowa joined the ranks states that allow gay couples to marry. While many supporters of gay marriage have focused on winning state approval through the political process by passing new laws to legalize the practice. That strategy has succeeded but only in New England. In the other states, gay marriage has been established only through the courts. While most of the legal fighting over gay marriage has unfolded in the various state courts, many gay-rights advocates suggest that soon the battle needs to be taken to the next level and fought out in the federal courts. Total victory will come only, when gays and lesbians possess a nationally protected right to marry. They contend that the Fourteenth Amendment suggests a constitutional right to marry for all persons. On the outside the answer might seem simple. The United States Government Accounting Office has identified more than a thousand federal benefits and responsibilities affected by marital status. In

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Gay Marriage

...Gay marriage 1 Gay marriage Lynita Scott March 19, 2014 Week 4 Comp/170 Gay Marriage 2 Gay individuals should have as much rights as heterosexual individuals regardless of sexual preference. Gay marriage is viewed as wrong and unnatural by heterosexual individuals. Heterosexuals posed the idea that gay marriage is a threat to heterosexual marriage. Marriage is a human right that should not be based upon sexual preference and fear. “Traditional marriage” is one man and one woman not woman and woman. Legalizing gay marriage will not change the way marriage is viewed. The United States is the land of the free, yet discriminates against gay individuals and their rights. Marriage was established from the Christian religion pronouncing the love between one man and one woman. Religious individuals feel gay marriage is a sin and does not deserve the right to marry. A Gay individual not being able to marry violates freedom and rights of those individuals. America is not willing to give gay marriage a chance; the reasons are fear of their children and opening gates for other unusual marriages. Marriage is based upon the Christian religion ordained by God for the lifelong union between one man as husband and one woman as wife. Christian considers it to be sacred and holy. Religion is opposed by many individuals because of their sexual preference. Predominantly Christian based faith as the most influential force, to keeping same Gay Marriage ...

Words: 626 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Gay Marriages

...Gay Marriages Priscilla Reyes Sociology 120: Introduction to Ethics & Sociology Kathleen Miller March 10, 2013 Gay marriages, I don’t believe in gay marriages only in marriages between a man and woman. I know that a lot of gays or lesbians are trying to get the Supreme Court to approve same sex marriage. In California, the Supreme Court is trying to get same sex marriages ban nationwide. The gay and lesbian are using the law to have the same sex marriages pass and there have been about 3 states like Maine, Maryland, and Washington that have passed the same sex marriage. In other states like Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Rhode Island, Minnesota, and New Jersey are against the same sex marriage. I don’t think that it should change what marriage is referring to between two men or two women; it is based on a man and woman marrying in holy matrimony. This is stated in the Bible and thru the standard government law and constitution. The government shouldn’t change the law of the constitution or the bill of rights because of same sex marriages. The gays and lesbians want the same rights as a man and a woman do when they get married, for instance if the significant other happens to pass away the significant other would inherited what their significant other left behind. It is not the same when a man inherited his wife life insurance policy or the wife inherits her husband’s life insurance. Marriage should only be between a man and a woman not two men or two women getting...

Words: 2517 - Pages: 11

Premium Essay

Gay Marriage

...Gay Marriage Even in today’s world, people make a big fuss about gay marriage. When I hear or think about a marriage, all I think about is two people who are so deeply in love with each other that they want to spend their entire life together. I think gay marriage is acceptable for the good it does to the general public. Gay people are as important as any other person as they contribute in the advancement of the human lifestyle in more ways than we can imagine, such as social, economic, and religious aspects. Social Aspect of Gay Marriage We live in a society that promotes equality and no discrimination. Gay people are as important as any of us, and so are their rights and freedom. Supreme court honored them with their rights when they made same sex marriage legal. To respect and reduce intergroup prejudice, support cultural diversity and set high standards in the society, Supreme Court legalized same sex marriages. When people are not focused on defending their rights of equality they manage to spend that time to give positive, educational and loving feedback towards the society. Adoption of orphans by gay couples would be a great example. By adopting, educating and giving better future to orphans; gay people provide strong structure to the future generation. Economic Aspect of Gay Marriage American economy took a boost in some aspects once the same sex marriage got legalized. Some of industries that benefited from this are banquet, catering and tourism. For example, wedding...

Words: 598 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Gay Marriage Essay

...How Everyone’s View on Gay Marriage Should Change Marriage is a commitment between two individuals. It is the ultimate way of showing your significant other that you love them. At this moment, in many countries and states, it is not legal to get married and show each other this eternal love, if your significant other is of the same sex as you are. This has been a huge debate around the world, but especially in the US. The population in America seems to be very torn when it comes to discussing gay marriage. But why is that? An answer could be that there are many stereotypes about gay relationships, and many people have a narrow-minded and one-sided view on same sex marriage. This view can, and should, be changed, which is the main purpose of the article “How My View on Gay Marriage Changed” by David Blankenhorn, founder and president of the Institute for American Values. Blankenhorn was a remarkable figure in the campaign against same-sex marriage in the US, but as the title of his article states, this view changed: Blankenhorn’s main point of view in the beginning of the article is the fact that the United Nations Convention stated by the Rights of the Child that every child has the right to know their biological parents. He believes that “Marriage is the planet’s only institution whose core purpose is to unite the biological, social and legal components of parenthood into one lasting bond”. He uses logos and points out that it is actually a child’s right to know his or her biological...

Words: 1053 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Gay Marraige

...'That the Australian Government legalise gay marriage in all states of Australia.' Which couple do you think is happier? Which couple do you think has the right to the security of marriage? Today I want to explain the very prevalent issue of gay marriage and what it means to gay couples, couples like the one in the photo. So what is gay marriage? What is the issue that people have been so strongly for and against? In Australian it is the federal legislation of same sex marriage. Through the alteration of the marriage act to include the marriage of same sex couples. In doing so affording the same rights to gay couples as straight couples. The main grounds people provide to why we shouldn’t allow gay marriage is that marriage is a community and religious value that only a man and a woman have the right to. In our society we also believe in the power of racial, social and religious equality so why do we continue to discriminate against gays and they’re right to marriage. I agree with the people that say marriage is a community value, Marriage holds together society and is at the core of the Australian family, but were I disagree is on the point that it should only be between a man and a woman. Why should such a valued and cherished thing like marriage be deprived to people simply because of there sexuality? The answer to that is it shouldn’t be, it shouldn’t be because the love between a woman and a man and two men or women is the same, because love is unconditional and...

Words: 567 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Persuasive Essay On Gay Marriage

...different. What is the meaning of being Gay? A person who says that they are LGBTs (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transsexual) are embracing who they truly want to be. LGBT or straight, everyone has the right to choose whomever they want to be with for the rest of their lives. More than twelve countries allow same-sex marriage. Most of these countries are in Europe and the Americas. Why not more? The countries that allow same-sex marriage use the Federal Government’s rules and restrictions on Gay marriage, which creates organization. It would be ideal for...

Words: 1240 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Doma

...Of America Verses Gay Marriage. The Land of the Free, or the home of the bigot? Today many Americans enjoy a level of freedom that is, and has been, an unheard of luxury, by both past and present standards, around the World. However, these freedoms have not always been afforded to minority groups without a fight. One of these issues, the right for homosexual couples to marry. Is, and has been, a hot button topic that, for over a decade has caused political, religious, and personal turmoil in the mainstream fabric of American culture. The goal of this paper, through research and facts, is to show the ugly discriminatory, and unconstitutional, factors that have gone into blocking homosexual couples the right to a loving marriage. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion. The First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States. However, it seems congress has made a law respecting an established religion, and that law is affecting the rights of millions of American Citizens. The law in question is the Federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). DOMA is unconstitutional as the law has clearly been written with respect to the belief systems of an established religion. As Americans it is our responsibility to make sure that this law is changed to meet the confines of the United States Constitution, and to bring equality to all. The Defense of marriage act of 1996 (DOMA). DOMA is one of the key points of contention in the debate on Gay Marriage. So what...

Words: 1792 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Gay Marriages

...problem. We love who we want. You can’t change who you fall in love with. Opponents argue that is against their religion—marriage should be between a man and a woman so that they can pro-create. However, Evan Wolfson, from a gay-advocacy group called Freedom to Marry, argues that “every religion can decide for itself whether to perform or honor any marriage…but no religion should be able to dictate who gets a civil marriage license” (Wolfson). This country was founded and has continued to develop the concept of separation of church and state. It is up to individual religions whether to acknowledge same-sex marriages. However, it is the nation’s responsibility to acknowledge all unions, instead of discriminating couples based on their sex. To infringe upon couples right to civil marriage is a violation of human rights. Gay people, who are in love, have the right to commit to each other and have it legally recognized by the United States government. Banning an issue doesn’t make it go away. The American Constitution said that everyone deserves the same, equal rights that include gay people. So banning same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. Making this issue illegal is also a form of discrimination. Homophobic ridicule and abuse gay citizens, and gay teenagers are scared to go to school because of the excessive bullying and teasing. And gays are just being themselves! We are all created equal, so why can't we all just try to get along? Why do people get...

Words: 1868 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Marriage

...December 10, 2012 Marriage 2 I have chosen to explore and research the topic of gay marriage. I will be discussing topics in regards to religion and how it offends the religious communities. I will also be touching on the topics of Laws and States that approve and disapprove of Gay Marriages, and why gay and lesbian couples want to get married. The most common religious argument against same-sex marriage revolves around scripture, which many religious communities believe came directly from the mouth of God, and they interpret scripture to forbid homosexuality, and by extension, same-sex marriage. The most quoted scripture in the bible comes from Leviticus 18:22, cited from the new International classic Reference Bible, which says “ Do not lie with a man as one lies with a women; that is detestable” (1988,133). Marriage 3 Many people who are religious only view marriage as a man and a woman, never a woman with a women or a man with a man to them they think Gay or Lesbian couples are living in sin and will never be let into God’s Kingdom. Before the nay religious wars that ravaged through Europe, marriage was almost entirely wrapped up in religion, specifically the Christian faith. It was of course a time of little religious tolerance and if the authority of the...

Words: 1124 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Same Sex Marraiges

...equal in dignity and rights, but are we allowing gays in New Zealand this? Hi I’m Ashlee and I believe gay marriages should be legal in New Zealand as everyone is entitled to choice. Only Ten countries recognise same sex marriage. New Zealand recognises Civil Unions; however I understand that Same Sex couples who enter into a civil union are denied equal access to all the benefits, rights, and privileges provided by law to married couples. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, but are we allowing gays in New Zealand this? Hi I’m Ashlee and I believe gay marriages should be legal in New Zealand as everyone is entitled to choice. Only Ten countries recognise same sex marriage. New Zealand recognises Civil Unions; however I understand that Same Sex couples who enter into a civil union are denied equal access to all the benefits, rights, and privileges provided by law to married couples. Because of this, it stands to reason that legalized gay marriage will ultimately prove beneficial for gay individuals. This, in turn, will be better for gay couples, the families of them, and communities where same sex couples live. It is basic a human right for non-discriminable marriage and New Zealand needs to set an example for other countries that also deny same sex Couples this right. Because of this, it stands to reason that legalized gay marriage will ultimately prove beneficial for gay individuals. This, in turn, will be better for gay couples, the families...

Words: 841 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Same-Sex Marriage

...the religion they choose to follow. Sometimes simply for being born a certain way, and even for being born on 'desired land' and the fight over who deserves to occupy it. Someone, or a group of people, will always deem themselves to be superior in all matters of sex, faith, religion, and culture. Think of the Crusades. The hostile religious wars and the lives lost; all to reclaim the 'Holy Land', and give it back to the 'superior' Christian religion. The Civil War and the enslavement of blacks, where African Americans were treated as no more than workhorses and animals. Hitler and the slaughter of millions of Jews and non-Arians; due to the convictions of an insane man and his persuasive belief that all Jews were an inferior race. "By defending myself against the Jew, I am fighting for the work of the Lord"(Hitler). Fast forward to the time where woman were seen as no more than childrearing humans only capable enough to cook, clean, and bear children. All for the man, in a time where males were the 'superior sex'. The list goes on and on. Have we not come far enough in humanity to come to the modern conclusion that "ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL" ? To embrace the differences of all. To all work together, despite our ethnicity, sex, religion, or now-sexual orientation. Can we not learn a lesson from our history. Well, the modern day 'war' is brewing. That 'war' is the battle on same-sex marriage. The gay community has come a long way. Harvey Milk and the gay rights movement...

Words: 1274 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

The Struggle for Equality in Marriage of Gay and Lesbian Couples

...Marriage of Gay and Lesbian Couples William Rigney COM156 4-14-2013 Meg Mikovitis Gay marriage, those two words have the power to stir up controversy, feelings and discussion like no others. Those two words have driven a wedge between the people of the United States, a wedge of tolerance and intolerance. There does not seem to be any middle ground with this debate, one is either in support of this issue of gay marriage, or one is opposed to it. Whatever your feelings are regarding this issue, there is no denying that gay marriage will be an issue for debate for a very long time. While religion may say it is wrong many people believe gay and lesbian couples deserve the same rights as straight couples and do not deserve to be treated differently. Webster’s dictionary defines marriage as n., (1) the state of being united to a person of the opposite sex as husband or wife in a consensual or contractual relationship recognized by law,(2) the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage <same-sex marriage>. This change in definition was made in 2003. Marriage should be about getting married to that special someone that you love, it is not just a piece of paper that ties us together. It also involves legal, economic and social aspects as well. Civil unions and domestic partnerships are discussed every day in society, but neither is the same as a “legal” marriage, and are not afforded the same rights as straight...

Words: 1738 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Lgbt Equality

...LGBT Equality With the recent legalization of gay marriage in California and Maryland the ever-present debate about same sex marriage has been intensified. It seems that every year there are a couple of events that make some people celebrate the progress in the fight for equality, and others disapprove of these happenings and say that decisions like these will take the world to chaos and disaster. The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community has always fought for equality and, in recent years, there have been many milestones in the fight towards equality. Nevertheless, there is still a lot of opposition to the idea of marriage equality and LGBT parenting. Religious beliefs are one of the primary reasons for people to oppose the idea of gay marriage and ideas of homosexuality being natural in general. In addition, strong ties between Religious institutions and governments create an environment where it is hard for members of the LGBT community to get the same legal standing as their heterosexual counterparts. In many countries homosexuality and acts of homosexuality are considered crimes. In some countries, like Iran and Saudi Arabia, being gay is punishable by death (Foreign Policy). People have the right to marry the man or woman they love and have a family with them. Unfortunately, this is a right that is reserved for heterosexual couples, mostly because of religious mentalities and traditions. Governments should legalize same sex marriage and adoption, because...

Words: 1860 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Thesis Statement Against Gay Adoption

...Gay adoption is the adoption of children by same sex couples. Based on this topic, I’d like to look into the question “Are children adopted by gay parents more likely to have the psychological problem?” And the thesis I stated is that gay couples are able to provide a warm and normal environment for adopted children to grow up. I want to focus on this topic from the current situation of gay adoption, gay couples are capable of raising children and children adopted by gay parents are the same as those who born in heterosexual families. Nowadays, the homosexual people are coming into public view and are accepted by more and more people. It has attracted much concern to improve and protect their rights, such as the Gay-Right Movement which refers...

Words: 1830 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Lgbtq Persuasive Speech

...are treated the way gay people are treated now. You are one of the straight people. You are out in public. People see you with your partner and they look away or shoot you a dirty look. Sometimes even throw a slur or two at you. Maybe even chase you down the street, threatening to kill you. Imagine this: You are in a bar, with some of your other straight friends. Just having a good time, relaxing. Next thing you know, you are crawling on the ground. You hear gunshots and screams of pain. You pass by your dead friends. You see their bodies are painted with bullet holes and blood stains. All this happened, just because you were straight. How would you feel, constantly getting made fun of and hated, just because of the person you love or have feelings for. It would feel great wouldn’t it? Or would it feel like no one accepts you for who you are. This is what happens to the LGBTQ community in the world we live in. They are mistreated, killed, and loved and supported by the creation of laws and LGBTQ rights leaders. You wouldn’t want it to happen to you, so why do you let it happen to them? Stand up. Be strong, and make your voice heard. Let the world know, that you will stand for change....

Words: 979 - Pages: 4