Same-sex marriage is a controversial issue in the society today; its legalization in various states worldwide elicits mixed reactions, from the population. The supporters and those who oppose the spread and legalization of the unions have their reasons.
Support of the same-sex marriages
The recognition of the same-sex marriages receives support from various parts of the population, governments, and other parties. Supporters of the marriages base their views on concepts of equality. Homosexual individuals are equal to their heterosexual counterparts; this shows that they need similar treatment. The couples should have a chance to have regular lives without differential or discriminatory treatment. Marriage gives them a chance to express their commitment and love for each other. According to legislation, all citizens have equal rights and freedoms; they can make choices on whom to marry. Supporters of this constitutional provision highlight that the rights should be extended to people who wish to have same-sex unions. The desire to steer away from the conventional heterosexual unions does not make same-sex marriages wrong. This will ensure legal and social acceptance.
Subsequently, homosexual individuals form part of minority groups. Through the years, the family undergoes changes. There are new types of families including; single parent, polygamous and so on. Same-sex marriages give couples an opportunity to start families; several couples adopt or use surrogates to get children. They love and grow together.
The society is versatile. Individuals should learn to accommodate each other’s uniqueness and differences; this ensures harmony and social progress. Despite the fact that most religious institutions oppose same-sex marriages, changes occur. Part of Christians and other religions now embrace and accommodate the unions. There are churches in various states that preside over same-sex unions. The change is a gradual one.
Counter-arguments against same-sex marriages
Despite the support same-sex marriages receive, there are opposing forces. Individuals and various institutions such as religious organizations oppose the unions. Most religions worldwide prefer and display support for heterosexual unions; marriage is a sanctified union between a man and a woman. Same-sex marriages are unacceptable in most religious institutions. Such marriages go against the beliefs and values held by the faithful. Based on beliefs and scriptural evidence, most religious institutions fight against the legalization and spread of the same-sex marriages. They engage in activities, sensitization programs, demonstrations and other activities aimed at countering the spread of homosexuality. They believe legalization of the same-sex marriages is not a part of the Lord’s purpose for society.
Subsequently, the social need for marriage is evident. For years, the social framework considers marriage between a man and a woman a vital part of society. A social perspective shows that children grow and develop well in a stable and loving environment; the stability arises from the complimentary roles of a man and woman, in the family. The complementary nature is crucial for procreation and raising children; it may be hard to achieve this in a same-sex marriage. In the field of parenting, women and men exhibit different parenting qualities; the child’s upbringing is dependent on this. It has the support of several child psychology experts.
The unpopularity of same sex unions is also a factor. By 2012, only 5% of countries worldwide legalized same-sex unions; this number has risen by a slight margin. It shows the rate of acceptance of such unions is still low. Legalization and acceptance of same-sex unions will force changes in various aspects of society. Institutions such as schools would have to change the curricula to accommodate the promoting of the same-sex marriages. Ideologies and information transmitted to children change; this causes a dilemma on moral, religious, and social views on what is right.
Personal opinion
Headstrong arguments arise for and against same-sex unions. Both sides have strong opinions and facts on why they maintain their stands, on the issue. My stand on the acceptance and legalization of the same-sex marriages is a liberal and accommodative one.
There is a need for the respect and protection of people’s rights to marital choices. Ensuring legal provisions for same-sex couples do not affect the rights of their heterosexual counterparts. Therefore, the society should not be against the recognition of such relationships. It is crucial to extend the majority’s privileges to the minority groups; it also defends their rights by ensuring respect equality and dignity.
Prohibiting same-sex unions does not only affect the couples, but also their families. Those are individuals who are part of families, friends and colleagues. Infringing on their rights isolates them. The brothers, sisters, parents, and relatives, of couples, also suffer from the discrimination.
Same-sex unions should be legalized, on consideration of the impact it has on the couples. Denying people the chance to formalize this relationship, just as heterosexual couples do, shows disregard for the unions. It considers same-sex unions not equal to those of other citizens. Restricting same-sex unions promotes a spirit of intolerance and prejudices to the couples. Accepting same-sex marriages does not redefine marriage; it expands it to accommodate individual needs and choices.
