The debate on gay marriages has been a very hot political topic for many years and because it is such a hot subject, the number of places that have come out publicly either for or against the subject is not surprising. While there are few states which allow gay or same-sex marriage, there are some that are more liberal, affording almost equal rights. Massachusetts is currently the only state in the United States that allows same-sex marriages. The state of Rhode Island is generous enough to recognize as legal, any same-sex marriage that is performed in Massachusetts, which is a major victory according to many same-sex supporters.
The elections of recent years have seen this as a very hot topic and with the White House stating openly that marriage can only involve a man and a woman, not same-sexes, many states have been very reluctant to permit same-sex marriages. However, a few states have permitted same-sex civil unions, which are very similar to marriage.
These states are California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey, and Vermont. The District of Columbia also recognizes same-sex unions and the Governor of New Hampshire has stated publicly that he will soon sign a bill giving the go-ahead to same-sex unions. This is a major victory for those who support the movement.
Although many states have not given the green light on the same-sex issue, there are states that are sitting around discussing the issue. Many couples who are fighting for their rights have argued that there is absolutely no difference in the way they run their households compared with their heterosexual counterparts. They have also pointed out that while they may be with a partner who is the same sex as them, they do still love their partner and should have the legal right to get married too.
This has always been a contentious subject, and probably will continue to be a hot topic for several years in the future. While the topic rages within the states and at the national level, it will more than likely be quite a long time before the gay and lesbian rights groups are able to truly declare a victory for their cause. Nevertheless, there is some solace to be taken in the small victories as they occur, and another Governor of a state being ready to allow a civil gay union is at least a step in the direction towards victory.
However, the fact remains that the actions of the individual states tend to reflect the views of the President. With a President in office who is a strict opponent of same-sex marriage and civil union, it is unlikely to allow much room for many triumphs until a more accommodating, or rather liberal, President is in the White House. Only time will tell what President Obama’s views are.
Once the bill has passed through all the legal channels of the state, it can go into effect as early as the next year, much to the joy of the New Hampshire residents, who have been waiting patiently. Each state that gives this right to its residents opens the door a little more to other states to become more tolerant. Finally, this paves the way for America to join most of Europe in sanctioning the legal inequalities of straight and gay couples nationwide.