SAME SEX MARRIAGE

Same Sex Marriage



Topic 1: Same Sex Marriage

Dr. Cameron, Paul, “Same Sex Marriage: Till Death Do Us Part?”

One article that is strongly opposed to same sex marriage is an article written by Dr. Paul Cameron titled "Same Sex Marriage: Till Death Do Us Part?" In a speech read to the United States House of Representatives on February 20, 1996, Iowa Representative Ed Fallon discussed why he is in support of the legalization of same sex marriage. He began his speech, by stating of this debate and how their vote would affect the public's point of view. He used the example of "red-baiting," from the 1950's, which today has become "pink-baiting." He felt that by creating gay and lesbian unions, instead of legalizing gay marriage, this would only reinforce homophobia and gay bashing. In order to do this, Representative Fallon, stated that we need to put an end to fear and stereotypes, and start seeing each other as fellow human beings. He strongly believes that this is a civil rights issue, and poses no threat to the society. He mentions a lesbian couple that has children the same as his son. They are being raised no different than how he is raising his child. His major point is that if same sex marriage continues to be band, there will be a message sent to the public, which condones homophobia, and does not give the equal rights to everyone. Dr. Paul Cameron of the Family Research Institute does not believe that this is true.

Demian D. “Legal Marriage Primer”

A second argument in favour of legalizing same sex marriage was written by the co-director of the Partners Task Force for Gay and Lesbian Couples. He believes, like Representative Fallon, that marriage is not only a religious agreement, but also has civil and legal status. According to his article, "Legal marriage triggers 150-250 laws in every U.S. state, as well as more than 1,040 Federal laws." He points out that there when a heterosexual couple gets married, clergy are not required for a license to be completed, nor does the couple need to belong to a church or temple. The only thing required for a marriage license is being a legal adult and part of an opposite-sex couple. There are many laws that require this piece of paper in order to receive the benefits. A few of these are: Wrongful death benefits, ...