Same-Sex Marriage in the United States In the land of the free, there are many people that are truly restricted from experiencing the right to pursue their own happiness. Although traditional Western values incline toward marriage that is only between a man and a woman, Americans that choose to pursue true happiness with a same-sex partner are unable to join together in marriage. The dictionary describes marriage as the social institution under which a male and female establish their decision to live as husband and wife by legal commitments and religious ceremonies. In the United States it is legal in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Washington D.C. States that recognize out-of-state gay marriages are New York and California. These states grant homosexual couples some of the same marriage rights as heterosexual couples. Included in those rights are tax benefits, estate planning, government benefits, employment, medical benefits, and family benefits. In recent years, the debate over gay marriage has grown from an issue that occasionally arose in a few states to a nationwide controversy (nearly 4% of Americans identify as being homosexual) [Gates]. The opposing viewpoints on whether gays should be allowed to marry or not greatly affect the nation. As many as 53% of Americans support gay marriage and homosexuality, with the number growing. Gay marriage may conflict with some religions; however, if one is able to choose what they believe in, in America, why are some (gays) unable to enjoy their right? On top of the controversy of gay marriage, these gays shouldn't be treated differently, regardless of their sexual orientation; they are normal human beings with the same amount of chromosomes as everyone else. Along with denying gays of marriage, it is a violation of religious freedom. No matter the belief, or lack of, every person is protected under the Constitution. Being homosexual and/or marrying within the same sex is not hurting anyone. The only difference between gay and straight couples is the number of one sex in the relationship. Those that oppose same-sex marriages use points that circulate around the existence of God and religion. For those that choose not to believe in a God or even those that do,
