Gay Marriage in the Right…

Ava Churchill

In recent times, homosexuality has become a more commonly accepted way of life for the American public. Contemporary Shows such as Will and Grace, Queer Eye For the Straight Guy, and The L Word seem to promote the homosexual lifestyle, presenting same sex relationships as acceptable and even ‘chic’. Meanwhile, the other half the country is using the “F” word when confronted with the proposition of same-sex marriage and its recent triumphs.

The ardent controversy over whether same sex marriages should be legal in the United States, has been reopened by the recent Massachusetts law, which has made gay marriage legal in that state. Though this is a step forward for same sex marriage in the United States, the repressed anti-gay sentiment of those conservatives still in the closet, has been refueled. Immediately following the approval of this new law, the governor of Massachusetts, many Republican congressmen, and the President of the United States, all jumped on the anti-gay marriage bandwagon, claiming that this law is “tainting the sanctity of marriage.”

"Marriage is a sacred institution between a man and a woman," Bush stated, trumpeting the opinion of many right-wing conservatives. On the other hand, California liberals like senior Ramon Calero strongly disagree. When asked if he is against same sex marriage, Calero said “As long as it makes them happy.” Conservatives, however, argue that their anti-gay marriage stance is a moral one. Apparently, those who oppose gay marriage have yet to realize that the “sanctity” of marriage is long gone. With the divorce rate at about 50%, and shows like Who Wants to Marry a Millionaire? , who can argue that keeping gays out of marriage will save its validity?

The simple reason why homosexuals should be allowed to marry is that they have the potential to be in as committed relationship as any straight couple. As hippie senior Sara Hansen said, “Love is always a positive thing and marriage should not be restricted to loving couples, who just happened to be gay.” Unfortunately though, gays are being stripped of their rights to a lawful marriage due to the fact that it has not been previously accepted. The long time tradition of straight marriages has permeated our culture and these right-wingers’ don’t want this to change. After all, what kind of nation is built on change?

Many conservatives are now going back to amending the US Constitution that would ensure that equality for gays will be stifled forever by banning it in all states. Gays in Massachusetts, now holding hands in public, will soon be ripped apart by watchful eyes on Capitol Hill. Bush has stopped short of supporting an amendment to the constitution to ban gay marriage. Sadly, this Massachusetts debate has been one small step towards the homosexual altar, yet one potential leap for homophobic kind.