The debate on gay marriages has been a very hot political potato for many years and because it is so hot a subject, the number of cities that have come out publicly either for or against the subject is not so astounding. While there are few states which actually recognize gay or same-sex marriages, 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 a legal marriage any same-sex marriage that is carried out in Massachusetts, which is considered a major victory by many same-sex supporters.
Elections of recent years have seen this as a very hot subject and with the White House stating publicly that marriage can only involve a man and a woman, not same-sexes, many states have been very reluctant to sanction same-sex marriages. However, a few states have permitted same-sex civil unions, which is 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.
While many states have not allowedf same-sex marriage, there are states which are sitting on the fence discussing the subject. 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 stated that while they may be with a partner who is the same sex as them, they do still love their partner and ought to have the legal right to marry them too.
This has always been a contentious topic, and likely will continue to be a hot topic for several years to come. While the topic rages within the states and at the national level, it will probably be quite a long time before the gay and lesbian rights groups can really declare a triumph 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 of 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 staunch 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.
After the bill has passed through all the channels of state, it will go into effect as early as the next year for the New Hampshire residents, who have been waiting patiently. Each state that gives this right to its residents opens the door to more states to become more tolerant. Finally, this paves the way for America to join the bulk of Europe in sanctioning the legal inequalities of straight and gay couples nationwide.
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