Same-Sex Marriage
Same-sex marriage is a contentious issue in the contemporary society. In same-sex unions, individuals of the same gender commit to marriage. The issue pits different individuals against each other. Subsequently, there are individuals who support same-sex marriage. Alternately, there are individuals who are inclined against the union given that it contradicts the traditional interpretation of the marriage union. However, there are several reasons which can be invoked in justifying the same-sex marriage. The union is not a contravention of nature.
Respect for Diversity
Contemporary American interactions are predicated on the principle of diversity. Essentially, diversity entails the respect for diverse culture, practices and beliefs (Head). As an American, I am culturally obligated to respect practices which are diverse, but within the confines of the law. A negative approach towards gay marriages is a discriminatory action against the subject individuals. Diversity aims to promote tolerance and appreciation of individuals who project a contrary opinion. An inclination against same-sex marriages mirrors a sense of discrimination – where an individual is dissatisfied with the next individual because of their sexual orientation (Gourguechon). While most detractors of the initiative argue that same-sex marriage should be shunned, its legalization legitimizes the concept. Subsequently, any action or opinion towards the subject group should be predicated on the understanding that the subjects are operating within the law.
Political Factor
The American political scene is subject to the democratic principles. As an American, I am obligated to respect the rights and individuality of divergent individuals (Gourguechon). The element of respect for the rights of same-sex relationships is highlighted by the group Human Rights Action (HRC) which is committed to the promotion of the rights of the LGBQT group in the US. As a legalized matter, same-sex marriage warrants the respect of other citizens despite their sexual orientation. The constitution is empowered to protect the rights of all individuals in the community. Any legalized action is empowered under the constitution. Subsequently, since same-sex marriage is legalized, the negation of the element provides a negation of the dictates of the constitution.
Equally, the detractors of same-sex marriage concept argue that the government and constitution are tasked with the protection of the sanctity of marriage. Notably, in a democratic setting, the constitution is not tasked with defining sanctity. Thus, the conventional idea of marriage is not a sacred affair. Mainly, culture has played a greater role in promoting the sanctity of traditional weddings. The definition and sanctioning of marriage institutions should be left to the individuals who are involved in the affair. Lastly, the constitution requires states to sanction various institutions that are practiced in diverse states.
Recognition of Same-Sex Marriage Does Not Negatively affect the Heterosexual Community
Increased cases of same-sex marriage will not affect the heterosexual marriages. When marriages of same-sex partners takes place, the increase will not change the orientation of the various individuals who are involved in the traditional forms of marriage. The legalization of homosexual marriages has not led to a reduction in conventional marriages because the sanctioning of the concept does not change the perspectives of the individuals who are involved in the initiatives (Head). People of different sexes continue to marry since their orientations are internally inspired.
Conclusion
Same-sex marriages continue to experience resistance in the contemporary society. Many individuals are inclined towards the traditional forms of marriage which involve individuals of different genders. It is important to respect same-sex marriages because they are empowered in the constitution. The necessity of same-sex marriages is also enshrined in the political framework which is predicated on the principles of democracy. Overall, same-sex marriage should be respected because it is an extension of the principles of tolerance and diversity in America.
Works Cited
Gourguechon, Prudence L. “Ten Reasons to Support Gay Marriage.” Psychology Today, 2012, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psychoanalytic-excavation/201205/ten-reasons-support-gay-marriage. Accessed June 3, 2018.
Head, Tom. “Four Reasons to Support Gay Marriage and Oppose the Federal Marriage Amendment.” ThoughtCo, 2006, https://www.thoughtco.com/reasons-to-support-gay-marriage-721253. Accessed June 3, 2018.
