By Sara Steere ‘13
Marisa Moutinho ‘13
Mark Ballaro ‘13
Vanessa Kenealy ‘13
EE Staff Writers
In the United States, one of the most common controversies is whether or not same-sex couples should be able to marry. Not only is the social media booming with this issue, but in the recent 2012 election it was an extremely prevalent topic during debates. This issue has created an ugly and heated battle between the church and state. Some churches outdated, almost ancient ideas are difficult for Americans to abide by during times when more and more people coming out.
The Bible, as well as other religious texts, makes it clear that marriage is a sacred thing that is strictly between a man and woman, and anybody who goes against this will meet an unpleasant fate in the next life.
Now, with so many gay rights movements and groups like gay-straight alliance, more same-sex couples feel more comfortable being open about their relationships and taking them to the next level. Religious organizations will continue to stay true to their beliefs, but very soon they could be standing alone.
When it comes to the Federal Government, many politicians have tended to keep quiet over their true beliefs in fear of losing their followers. However, President Obama changed this when he announced to the world that he supports those who are in same-sex relationships and want to get married.
Since then Connecticut, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont and Washington have all legalized gay marriage. These nine states have made a simple act of love so much easier for thousands of couples across the country. Few can forget the two elderly females who became the first same-sex couple to be married in New York in July 2011. It is the hope of many that this will be possible in every state so partners will not have to travel to a different state, or Canada, to make their love official.
Although it is a very sensitive topic, THS Senior Alexa Pfohl states her opinion on gay marriage saying, “I think it should be legal everywhere, not just some states. If you really love someone, I don’t see why it’s a problem. And nobody even goes to church anymore. The church can believe what they want, but they kind of need to get with the times.” Many people, young and old, agree with Alexa’s opinion. So is love the blind one, or are the church and government the ones closing their eyes to reality with their obsolete and unfair views?