The debate on gay marriages has been a very hot political topic for many years and because it is such a hot topic, the number of places that have come out publicly either for or against the subject is not surprising. While there are few states that 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 a legal marriage any same-sex marriage that was carried out in Massachusetts, which is considered a major victory by many same-sex supporters.
The elections of recent years have seen this as a very hot topic and with the White House stressing openly that marriage can only involve a man and a woman, not same-sexes, many states have been very reluctant to allow same-sex marriages. However, a few states have sanctioned 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 advance for those who support the movement.
Although many states have not allowedf same-sex marriage, there are states that are sitting on the fence discussing the issue. Many couples who are struggling for their rights have pointed out that there is absolutely no difference in the manner they run their households compared to 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 subject, and likely will continue to be a contentious subject for several years to come. While the issues rage 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 triumphs as they occur, and another Governor of a state being ready to permit a civil union is at least a step in the direction towards triumph.
However, the fact is that the actions of the individual states usually reflect the opinions of the President. With a President in office who is a strict opponent of same-sex marriage as well as civil union, it is unlikely to allow much room for many more victories 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 legal channels of the state, it will 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.